Chinese Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina Li Fan said that China’s 15th Five-Year Development Plan differs from the previous one primarily due to changing global circumstances and the country’s new phase of development.
“Compared to the 14th plan, we are now facing more intense geopolitical conflicts, rapid development of artificial intelligence, and trends toward the fragmentation of global supply chains. At the same time, China is entering a new stage of development, with the goal of achieving socialist modernization by 2035,” said Li.
Four Key Development Goals
The ambassador outlined four main dimensions of the new plan shaping China’s development strategy.
“The first is strategic positioning — the goal is for GDP per capita to reach the level of moderately developed countries. The second is accelerating technological development and strengthening self-reliance in innovation. The third is the development of a green economy and the reduction of emissions. The fourth is improving citizens’ quality of life through employment, education, and healthcare,” she said.
China Advocates Dialogue
Speaking about the conflict in the Middle East, Li said that China supports de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.
“This is a war that should not have happened and that benefits no side. China is doing everything it can to promote peace talks and stabilize the situation,” she said.
She added that concrete steps have already been taken.
“The Chinese foreign minister has held talks with a number of international actors, a special envoy has been sent to the region, and China has delivered emergency humanitarian aid to the affected countries,” she said.
Opening to Europe and Investment
China aims to further deepen cooperation with European partners through a more open market and increased investment, Li said.
“We have reduced the negative list for foreign investment, and restrictions in the manufacturing sector have been completely removed. In the coming period, we will continue to improve conditions for foreign companies and expand opportunities for cooperation,” she said.
She also highlighted the potential of emerging industries.
“The development of the digital economy, advanced manufacturing, and green technologies creates significant opportunities for joint development with European partners,” she said.
Opportunities for Bosnia and Herzegovina
Li said the new plan opens up concrete opportunities for smaller countries such as Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“The new Five-Year Plan brings new opportunities for cooperation with Bosnia and Herzegovina in several sectors, including energy, infrastructure, technology, healthcare, and trade,” she said.
She cited specific examples of cooperation.
“Projects such as the Ivovik wind farm and the construction of sections of Corridor 5C have already demonstrated the potential for cooperation, and there is considerable room for further investment,” she said.
Technology, Environment, and Market
She placed particular emphasis on new sectors and market opportunities.
“China is ready to cooperate in areas such as artificial intelligence, environmental protection, and agriculture. Our market offers opportunities for exports from Bosnia and Herzegovina, including food products and other goods,” she said.
She also highlighted the importance of healthcare projects.
“Projects such as the hospital in Doboj have shown how cooperation can directly improve citizens’ quality of life,” she said.
