#China #Guangzhou #Global Collaboration #Zheng Bijian

Zheng Bijian's Vision at the 2024 Understanding China Conference

The recent 2024 Understanding China Conference, which commenced on December 3 in Guangzhou, has sparked significant interest among global leaders, scholars, and industry experts. This event, co-organized by the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy, aims to enhance understanding of China's modernization and its implications for global cooperation.

Among the noteworthy speakers was Zheng Bijian, a pivotal figure and founding chairman of the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy. At 93 years of age, Zheng approached the podium in a wheelchair, his presence evoking a warm and respectful response from attendees who celebrated his enduring dedication to fostering international understanding of China's narrative. His speech underscored the vital role that China's modernization plays not just for its own citizens but as a key to new avenues of global growth.

Key Themes of the Conference

During his address, Zheng articulated three foundational pillars essential for grasping China's developmental trajectory:
1. Understanding Reforms: He emphasized that a solid grasp of China's reforms is crucial to comprehending its historical and future trajectories. By recognizing the scope and impact of these reforms, attendees could appreciate how they have shaped current realities.
2. Blueprint for Modernization: Zheng delineated Chinese modernization as a comprehensive framework for ongoing reforms. This blueprint underscores the country's commitment to transforming its economic landscape and creating a more inviting space for international partnership.
3. Opportunities for Global Development: Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of Zheng's speech was his articulation of how Chinese modernization opens new doors for global collaboration. He encouraged foreign stakeholders to view China's advancements as mutually beneficial opportunities rather than competitive threats.

Commitment to Openness

One of the defining characteristics emphasized by Zheng was the principle of openness in modernization. Specifically, he addressed escalating concerns surrounding global decoupling and disruptions within supply chains. Zheng confidently stated, "China will never pursue a closed, self-contained modernization." Instead, he noted that China values openness and is committed to aligning with international economic and trade standards. This commitment is manifested in a series of progressive policies, such as:

• - Lifting restrictions on foreign capital in financial services
• - Eliminating limits on manufacturing investments
• - Expanding visa-free travel opportunities to 38 nations
• - Implementing a 72- to 144-hour transit visa exemption for travelers from 54 countries

These initiatives emphasize China's intent to create a business environment that not only meets but exceeds international expectations while inviting collaborative efforts.

A Call for Global Participation

Concluding his address, Zheng reaffirmed China's openness to international collaboration in its modernization journey. He inspiringly declared, "China's reform and development represent opportunities for all nations." His comments resonated with many in attendance, reinforcing the idea that globalization relies on mutual participation and understanding.

The 2024 Understanding China Conference has proven itself as a vital international platform. It positions China as a central player in the global arena, showcasing its continuous evolution while reiterating the importance of collaboration in today's interconnected world. As global dynamics evolve, discussions similar to those initiated at this conference will be crucial in shaping our collective future.

About the Conference

The 2024 Understanding China Conference is a premier international event and serves as a valuable platform for fostering a nuanced understanding of China's modern reform strategies and their far-reaching implications for global growth. With participants from various sectors, the conference signifies a collective pursuit of collaborative solutions that resonate beyond national borders.