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Understanding China Conference 2025: A Deep Dive into Modernization and Global Governance

The 2025 Understanding China Conference is scheduled to commence on November 30, 2025, in the vibrant city of Guangzhou. This significant event aims to bring together a diverse array of statesmen, scholars, industry leaders, and representatives from international organizations, all converging to explore critical themes surrounding Chinese modernization and global governance. The title for this year’s conference is "New plan, new development, new options for China's modernization and a new vision for global governance."

As one of the key events on the international calendar, the conference underscores the relevance of the 15th Five-Year Plan, innovative pathways for modernization, and emerging global opportunities. Additionally, it aims to foster collaborative actions within the framework of the Global Governance Initiative.

A Noteworthy Collaborative Effort

Co-hosted by notable institutions such as the China Institute for Innovation Development Strategy (CIIDS), the Chinese People’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (CPIFA), and the Guangdong provincial government, along with sponsorship from the Guangzhou Municipal People's Government, this three-day conference is poised to be a robust platform for dialogue.

The agenda includes a grand opening ceremony, speeches from distinguished leaders, and influential guest lectures. Participants will engage in four parallel seminars, 19 thematic forums, and three special dialogues in the Greater Bay Area, while additional activities will enrich the participants’ experience.

In total, it is anticipated that around 200 international representatives from 72 countries and regions will attend — a noteworthy 70% of them hailing from the Global South. Furthermore, many of these representatives will be newcomers, highlighting the event's broadening appeal. Among the esteemed participants are seven former statesmen with a vice-premier rank or higher, 11 with ministerial status, and five ambassadors representing foreign entities in China. There will also be more than 300 Chinese guests giving speeches, bringing the total attendance to roughly 800 participants.

Themes and Objectives

The thematic framework of the conference will touch on four essential elements:
1. Promoting the 15th Five-Year Plan while reviewing the progress of the 14th plan.
2. Highlighting the global implications of Chinese modernization.
3. Disseminating China’s four key global initiatives and emphasizing its contributions to global development.
4. Showcasing the Greater Bay Area of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao as a significant landmark in terms of reform and openness.

Complementary Activities

The conference will also feature various complementary activities under Understanding Guangzhou, which includes the exhibition titled "Guangzhou: A City Beautifying the World" and urban experiences like "Tasting Guangzhou" and "Walking the Pearl River." These initiatives will invite attendees to witness and engage with the thrilling practices of Chinese modernization and urban development.

Since its inception in 2013, the Understanding China Conference has emerged as a premier forum dedicated to interpreting China’s strategic trajectories and their broader global impacts. It also serves as a vital venue for inclusive dialogue in today’s rapidly changing milieu. With its growing emphasis on involving the southern hemisphere’s voices, the conference reinforces its role in promoting a collective future for humanity.

For participants seeking to navigate through the complexities of Chinese modernity and its global embrace, the 2025 Understanding China Conference in Guangzhou promises to be an enlightening and transformative experience.

Watch the Conference Video