At the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference 2024, China’s top legislator Zhao Leji emphasized the importance of Asia preventing the world from becoming a battleground for geopolitical conflicts. He highlighted the region’s history of enduring both “hot and cold” wars and called for unity to safeguard against such conflicts. Zhao welcomed all countries to join China’s development initiatives, including the Belt and Road Initiative. The remarks come amidst growing tensions in the region and global concerns over geopolitical rivalries.