The upcoming Global Leaders' Meeting on Women is not only a celebration of three decades of progress, but also a springboard for future collaboration and innovation in women's empowerment, said the Cambodian minister of Women's Affairs.

PHNOM PENH, Oct. 9 (Xinhua) -- The upcoming Global Leaders' Meeting on Women will be an important opportunity for the world to renew its shared commitment to gender equality and inclusive development, said Cambodian Minister of Women's Affairs Ing Kantha Phavi.

Scheduled to take place in Beijing on Oct. 13-14, the summit will be convened on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the 1995 World Conference on Women, held in the same city.

"This landmark event is an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to gender equality and inclusive development -- especially across the Global South," she told Xinhua in a recent interview.

The summit is not only a celebration of three decades of progress, but also a springboard for future collaboration and innovation in women's empowerment, Phavi said.

Over the past 30 years, China has consistently upheld the spirit of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, making significant and far-reaching global contributions to women's empowerment, including capacity building, maternal and child health, financial support and digital inclusion, among others, she said.

Phavi pointed out that nearly 10 percent of women and girls worldwide still live in extreme poverty, which limits their access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, while more than 600 million women and girls face conflict and instability.

"Violence against women, discrimination, and economic inequality remain widespread, especially in informal labor markets and underserved communities," the minister said.

"Through solidarity, innovation, and shared leadership, countries in the Global South can help shape a future where women thrive, lead and transform their communities," she said.

Chinese women's creativity, resilience and leadership continue to drive the nation's development, she said.

"We are inspired by China's efforts to promote women's leadership in digital technologies, AI, and STEM education -- unlocking their potential as innovators and changemakers," Phavi said.