Things based on cooperation mean the modernization of mankind

In Beijing, there is a statement that the West does not understand China, or its policies, especially when it comes to modernization and development. Professor and director of the Renmin University Institute of International Affairs in China, Wang Shawey, tried to explain the Chinese view of modernization despite Western understandings, stressing that Chinese modernization also means modernization of humanity through peaceful development. China points out that modernization is not only its national venture, but a plan for global progress, that is, a vision that promises a more inclusive future for all

Chinese view of global modernization and development:

Misunderstandings between the West and China are rising by escalating the trade war between the United States and China after the introduction of new customs duties, leading to weakening ties and creating no confidence between the two leading world economies. In such a tense situation, Beijing thinks that the West does not understand China, or its policies, especially when it comes to modernization and development. Professor and Director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University in China, Wang Shivei, in a conversation with journalists in Beijing tried to explain the Chinese view of modernization, making a parallel to the Western perceptions, stressing that Chinese modernization means modernization.
– Our happiness is never the result of a foreign accident. We believe in modernization for everyone, which is different from the West. The purpose of the trade war is to create two blocks. The world may be divided in the future and will diversify supply chains and economic separation. But the trade war will lead China to a new kind of globalization-says Professor Dr. Wang Shivei.

Modernization does not necessarily meantings

China follows its own path for modernization, which differs from that of the West. This commitment was also emphasized by Chinese President Si Jinping, who said before the leading staff of the Communist Party in 2023 that the state would continue to monitor Chinese modernization, as a way that differs from the germination. The Chinese president once said that the key to understanding China lies in understanding Chinese modernization. And with its separate features, Chinese modernization actually shows that the term modernization no longer has to necessarily meanto.
– Chinese modernization is a socialist modernization implemented under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. It contains elements that are common to the processes of modernization of all countries, but is more characterized by peculiarities that are unique to the Chinese context – explains Professor Wang Shivei of Chinese modernization, adding that party leadership is vital to the basic direction, future and success of Chinese modernization.
Modernization in China covers industrialization and urbanization, ie knowledge and information. But at the same time, the preservation of traditions with their adaptation to current conditions is highlighted.
« Every modernization should be based on traditions, not on fundamentalism, but the march towards modernization should be implemented by adjusting traditions to the present, » the professor said.

Creating common opportunities for development

China is believed to have the inability to properly understand its modernization by the West is linked to the belief that the competitiveness of Asian superpowers in global markets is due to unfair practices. In the United States and the EU, there are more and more vocal protests for the possibility of flooding the western markets with economical Chinese products. A main concern for the West is the export of Chinese electric vehicles, solar panels and wind turbines. There are usually accusations that these industries have gained an unfair market advantage as a result of the state subsidies provided. But Professor Dr. Shivei, through the example of exporting Chinese electric vehicles, explains China’s commitment to the common modernization of mankind.
– China can produce 30 million electric vehicles a year, but it cannot sell everyone in the domestic market. The « Belt and Road » initiative shares infrastructure for common prosperity. Because, how will you buy electric vehicles if you do not have infrastructure? If other states are rich and developed and they will be able to afford to buy Chinese electric vehicles. That’s why we say that our modernization is for everyone – the professor points out.
In China, they say the « Belt and Road » initiative is a clear example of how Chinese development reshapes international trade ties, creating economic opportunities throughout Asia, Africa and Europe. It is stated that it is not just about road construction or railways, but to encourage long -term economic partnerships, all of which should benefit parties.
The importance of Chinese modernization for the world is that it offers a new opportunity for countries that want to accelerate development by simultaneously preserving its independence, Professor Wang Hivei said. The message that Chinese modernization sends to other countries is that if China can be modernized, then they can do the same. China therefore points out that modernization is not only its national venture, but a plan for global progress, that is, a vision that promises a more inclusive future for all. Chinese modernization was also one of the topics that attracted much attention and during the most important annual political rally in China, « Two sessions », held in early March, during which a series of new measures were designed to accelerate Chinese domestic transformation, as well as to create new opportunities for global development.

Milko Zivkovic, our rapporteur from China