By Xinhua,
Boao (China): The annual conference of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) opened in this scenic town of China’s southern Hainan Province Saturday, focusing on the cooperation of Asian countries amid the global financial crisis.
Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao is to deliver a keynote speech at the opening plenary meeting.
More than 1,600 political leaders, business people and academic scholars gathered in the island resort for the conference, which will conclude Sunday.
During the conference, the theme of which is “Asia: Managing Beyond Crisis”, delegates are expected to discuss the effect of the financial crisis on Asia, the steps taken by their respective countries to weather the challenges effectively, the role of emerging economies in reforming the global financial system, and the balance between financial regulation and innovation.
Traditional topics of green development and Internet innovation, as well as the creative industry and contemporary art are also on the agenda.
BFA was established in 2001 as a platform for high-level interaction between political and business leaders from Asia and around the world. It is aimed at promoting the development goals of Asian countries through greater regional economic integration.