PREFACE

The year 2019 presents the world with a mixed picture of chaos and changes. Trade disputes between China and the United States have reached an unprecedented scale; International trade and investment have slowed down; Growth of world economy hasdecelerated; Some countries have experienced political and social unrest; Competition among major powers has intensified; International mechanisms and international cooperation have been severely dampened; International relations has entered an era of reorganization and reconstruction; Disorder, abnormality and uncertainty have become popular keywords for assessing the international situation. Past experiences that people once took for granted in the post-Cold War Era-the triumphant advancement of globalization, the vigorous development of the world economy, the increasingly close ties among countries and regions, the overall stability of relations among major powers, and the strengthening of international cooperation-have all become ‘good old times’.

The United States is a major source of such chaos and changes. The year 2019 marked a year in which “Trumpism”-with its America First doctrine and economic nationalism and diplomatic unilateralism, continuing to enjoy full swing. Trade wars, breach of contracts, withdrawal from international treaties, paralyzing institutions, sanctions...these reckless decisions aim to pursue the America First principle with no regard to morality, responsibility, credibility or image. When the world’s most powerful country and main architect of international order is determined to revise the existing international order, the destructiveness could go beyond people’s wildest imagination. When the US is no longer the nation we know, the world no longer appears the way we are familiar with.

Against the backdrop of these drastic changes, some regions and countries are now urgently seeking ways to adjust their strategies and policies in response to the changing environment. Some have worked hard to improve their own performance; Some have made efforts both at home and abroad; And some have sought comfort

from collaboration. The conclusion of the negotiations on the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a free trade arrangement that spans 16 countries in the Asia-Pacific and covers the most populous in the world, marks a

significant step forward for Asia's regional economic cooperation. Given the strategic competition from the United States and the internal pressure of economic transformation and upgrade, China has made the wise strategic choice of opening

wider to the outside world, deepening reform and strengthening cooperation. While responses may vary depending on different realities across countries and regions, the key lies in following the trend, responding to the times, staying agile and seizing opportunities.

Looking ahead to 2020, the changing international landscape is here to stay and adjustment will likely continue. Whoever can make genuine efforts to stay agile, flexible and innovative and make substantial progres will be able to lead the trend of changes. China should perform its due tasks and keep going!

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