BOAO, China, March 27 -- Global leaders and business representatives on Thursday called on countries to jointly address global challenges and contribute to a better future in Asia and the larger world.

While addressing the opening ceremony of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) Annual Conference 2025, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone emphasized that as the world faces numerous challenges, Asian countries must continue to strengthen regional and global connectivity through infrastructure development, and bolster policy coordination and people-to-people exchanges so as to promote mutual understanding and trust.

Muhammad Yunus, chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government, said in his speech, "The destinies of Asian countries are intertwined."

It is crucial to enhance cooperation in areas such as finance, trade, agriculture and talent exchange to jointly chart a clear roadmap for common prosperity and a shared future, Yunus added.

Also addressing the forum, Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh, CEO of Saudi Basic Industries Corporation, said that the alignment between Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative has opened doors for foreign investment and technological exchange.

He called for closer collaboration among countries to promote the free flow of expertise, goods and capital spanning multiple industrial sectors.

Running from March 25 to 28, this year's conference is themed "Asia in the Changing World: Towards a Shared Future."