Since the establishment of the National Data Administration (NDA) in 2023, China has signed memorandums of understanding on digital economy cooperation with 26 countries and expanded its Silk Road e-commerce network to 33 partner nations, NDA chief Liu Liehong said Thursday.

A visitor tries a pair of glasses at the Digital Technology Chain area of the third China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing, capital of China, July 19, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Liu said China's strategy — centered on narrowing the digital divide, sharing innovation benefits, and building a better future — has gained broad recognition at the G20 and APEC meetings, as well as among countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative.

According to Liu, China's international partnerships are being advanced on three fronts: "hard connectivity" through infrastructure projects like the global rollout of the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System and smart port solutions; "soft connectivity" via participation in U.N.-led efforts to shape global data governance; and "heart-to-heart connections" through training programs for the Global South covering artificial intelligence, smart manufacturing, and new industrialization.

On Aug. 14, 2025, the State Council Information Office holds a press conference in Beijing on achievements in Digital China development during the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025). [Photo by Zhang Xin/China SCIO]

China is also exploring new avenues for cooperation. This year, the country selected a series of exemplary cooperation projects with Shanghai Cooperation Organization countries, covering six areas: industrial digital transformation, digital infrastructure development, digital technology innovation and application, digital industrial park construction, public services, and data security. Liu said these efforts are steadily expanding the depth and breadth of digital economy collaboration, with significant room and potential for growth.

"Going forward, we will strengthen coordination, advance practical cooperation, and work with global partners to create a bright future for the digital economy," Liu said.