Former President Nangolo Mbumba has called on global societies to work together to build inclusive governance structures that prioritise the well-being of all people.

Speaking at the Global Civilization Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, China, Mbumba said issues such as poverty, youth unemployment, and unequal access to education and healthcare must be addressed to achieve harmonious societies.

He said a truly civilized society is defined by tolerance, justice, and respect for others, with a strong commitment to the welfare of all its members.

"Namibia stands ready to hold hands with the global community and China, to pull in one direction and implement the Global Civilizations Initiative, with the belief that it will take us one step closer towards an inclusive, stable, peaceful and prosperous future built on respect for the rights and aspirations of all people across the entire world," he said.

The meeting, which began Thursday, focuses on cultural diversity and mutual learning in driving human progress. It drew over 600 guests from 140 countries and regions and features sub-forums discussing the role of inter-civilization exchange in global peace and development.

"Like all peace-loving nations, Namibia, and Africa at large, promote the concept of global dialogue as a means to foster understanding, encourage collaboration and initiate sustainable solutions to the myriad of challenges we face in our world," Mbumba said.