China's Path to a Brighter Future
Yi Xin
The curtain has just closed on the Paris 2024 Olympics, where Team China secured a remarkable total of 40 gold medals, achieving historic milestones across various disciplines. This outstanding performance is widely regarded as a reflection of China's comprehensive strength.
Amidst the celebrations, some suggest that China, as a global economic giant, is experiencing a decline and has reached its peak. Such sentiments are often fueled by unease about China's prosperity. Kay Bailey Hutchison, the former U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO, stated that "an internal economic crisis" could be America's best strategy to counter China. This perspective is accompanied by efforts to deter global investment and trade with China, aiming to isolate and weaken its economy.
If these views represent Western skepticism toward China, it is no surprise that narratives predicting China's economic stagnation or collapse have gained traction. Yet, such discourse is grossly misleading and underestimates China's inherent strength and resilience. In reality, there are ample reasons to be optimistic about China's future development.
Long-term Vision and Strategic Planning
A hallmark of China's development approach is its long-term vision, distinguishing it from the short-term focus often prevalent in Western politics. The Chinese government excels in strategic planning, setting and achieving long-term objectives.
This is exemplified by China's green transformation, where its forward-looking policies have positioned the country at the forefront of new energy and related sectors. Initiatives like the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, developed over generations, are designed to yield benefits that transcend time and space.
Committed Execution of Ambitious Goals
Chinese culture places great importance on fulfilling promises and completing tasks. Whether it's poverty alleviation or pollution control, China has consistently met and often exceeded its targets.
At the recent third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, over 300 significant reform tasks were outlined with a clear timeline for completion by 2029. This demonstrates China's dedication to systematic and comprehensive development.
In contrast, the last two U.S. presidents have fulfilled less than 30% of their campaign promises. The U.S.'s fluctuating stance on the Paris Agreement, signing in 2016, withdrawing in 2019, and rejoining in 2021, portends only unpredictability.
Proactive Self-Correction and Reform
China is proactive and transformative in addressing internal issues. Along this line, the country has transitioned from a growth model focused on speed and scale to one that emphasizes high-quality development. This shift signifies a deeper commitment to sustainability and balance, even if it results in a moderated growth rate compared to the past.
China's reform process is one of continuous exploration. As the easily accessible gains have been achieved, the focus now is on more substantive self-improvements rather than deflecting blame.
The fight against corruption is a testament to this approach. With a zero-tolerance policy, China has achieved a decisive victory in combating corruption. The persistent anti-corruption efforts over the past decade have ensured that power is always exercised in the interests of the people.
Global Outlook and Concern for Humanity
In an interconnected world, no country can prosper in isolation. China's history, marked by openness and integration, has allowed its civilization to thrive for millennia.
China envisions international relations based on mutual benefit and shared prosperity. The concept of a community with a shared future for mankind encapsulates this philosophy. And China contributes actively to global peace and development. A recent example of this is the hosting of leaders from 14 Palestinian factions in Beijing, including Hamas and Fatah, leading to a significant reconciliation and unity agreement.
In contrast, some countries are preoccupied with forming exclusive blocs and using trade barriers and sanctions as deterrents, attempting to profit from others' misfortunes. It is clear that such tactics are aimed at diverting attention from domestic issues. However, blame-shifting is ineffective; the right approach is to address the root causes rather than pointing fingers.
For the world, the path ahead is filled with unseen challenges. In the face of risks and uncertainties, China's response is clear and resolute: a commitment to self-improvement, innovation, and high-quality development. With a clear vision and concrete actions, China will continue on its journey to greater development. Confident, capable, and with a concern for all of humanity, a better China contributes to a better world.
The author is a Beijing-based observer of international affairs.