As changes unseen in a century are accelerating, the world faces numerous risks and challenges. Geopolitical conflicts are protracted, and unilateralism and protectionism are rising. In this turbulent and changing world, development remains a timeless theme and stands at a crossroads. As 2026 marks the fifth year since the Global Development Initiative was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, CGTN brings together distinguished guests to look at where development cooperation is actually working, where it's falling short and what it will take to close the gap.