China will "safeguard the UN-centered international system, preserve the international order underpinned by international law, and uphold the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core," said Chinese President Xi Jinping in his speech at the opening plenary of the Boao Forum for Asia on Tuesday.

"We must not let the rules set by one or a few countries be imposed on others, or allow unilateralism pursued by certain countries to set the pace for the whole world," President Xi said.

Xi stressed that openness is essential for development and progress, which is also "the key to post-COVID economic recovery." Attempts to "erect walls" or "decouple" will serve neither one's own interests nor those of others.

Xi also reassured that China remains committed to the Paris Agreement, and said that the country will continue advocating for international cooperation to cope with climate change.

Xi added that it is important to take comprehensive measures to work together for "a global community of health for all."