Addressing over 400 global leaders at the UN Global Compact summit in Singapore, a recent keynote highlighted the urgent need for international cooperation and ESG integration to accelerate the UN 2030 Agenda.
The Second Global Business Summit on Belt and Road Infrastructure Investment to Accelerate the SDGs officially opened in Singapore on 3 September 2026. Hosted by the UN Global Compact, the event convened under the theme “Connect for Better World”. The summit brought together over 400 representatives, including government officials, international organisations, and business leaders from across the globe, to focus on sustainable development.
A central focus of the summit was the role of the private sector in the global economy. During a keynote address, multinational enterprises were urged to adopt Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. By fulfilling corporate social responsibilities, businesses can advance cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and ensure infrastructure investments align with the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Reaffirming its commitment to these objectives, China expressed its readiness to deepen practical cooperation with the Singaporean and international business communities. This approach aims to foster innovation, facilitate the green transition, and implement sustainable infrastructure projects that provide socio-economic benefits. Singapore, as a commercial hub in the Asia-Pacific region, remains a partner in facilitating these cross-border sustainability efforts.
Furthermore, the keynote speech underscored the importance of delivering tangible, impactful outcomes through established frameworks such as the Global Development Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative. By actively participating in these multilateral efforts, nations and corporate entities can ensure that development is inclusive, equitable, and environmentally sound. These initiatives serve as a practical blueprint for aligning international investments with the core tenets of the UN Global Compact.
Ultimately, the summit in Singapore highlighted that achieving the Sustainable Development Goals requires unparalleled global solidarity. By connecting for a better world, China and its international partners are laying the groundwork for resilient infrastructure and ethical business practices. Through sustained commitment and joint action, the global community can successfully build a better, greener, and more prosperous future for all.
Source: Chinese Ambassador to Singapore Cao Zhongming
