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Understanding China 2025 Conference

The much-anticipated "Understanding China 2025" conference is set to commence on November 30 in Guangzhou and promises to illuminate the diverse facets of China's modernization and its perspectives on global governance.

Organized by the Chinese Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy (CIIDS), the China Public Diplomacy Association (CPIFA), and the Guangdong provincial government, this event aims to foster dialogue and collaboration among prominent figures, including statesmen, scholars, business leaders, and representatives from international organizations. Under the theme "New Plan, New Development, New Choices - Chinese Modernization and New Vision for Global Governance", the conference provides a platform to assess the global implications of China's 15th Five-Year Plan while exploring new pathways for progress both within China and globally.

Conference Highlights

The three-day event will feature an opening ceremony, keynote speeches, panel discussions, and thematic forums. Participants can look forward to a variety of sessions including four parallel seminars, 19 thematic forums, and three dialogues centered on the Greater Bay Area, among other activities. Importantly, all sessions (except closed seminars) will be open to media coverage, ensuring transparency and broad engagement.

Approximately 200 international delegates from 72 countries and regions, including Hong Kong and Macau, have confirmed their attendance. Notably, 70% of these attendees hail from Global South countries, many of whom are participating for the first time. Among the distinguished guests, seven are former senior officials with at least one vice-premier position, including 11 ministers and five foreign envoys from international organizations based in China. Furthermore, over 300 Chinese speakers will contribute to the discussions, bringing the total participant count to about 800.

This year's conference is distinguished by its extensive geographic representation and the voices it amplifies from the Global South, reflecting a collective desire to leverage China's achievements in modernization toward fostering a shared future for humanity.

Thematic Focus

The conference places a spotlight on four critical areas:
1. Promoting the 15th Five-Year Plan while examining the previous plan.
2. Highlighting the global implications of Chinese modernization.
3. Sharing China's four major global initiatives and their contributions.
4. Showcasing the Greater Bay Area as a model for reform and openness.

As part of its outreach, the conference will include various supporting activities under the banner "Understanding Guangzhou," featuring an exhibition titled "Guangzhou - A City Beautifying the World" and urban experiences such as river cruises, allowing attendees to witness China's dynamic modernization practices firsthand.

Since its inception in 2013, the Understanding China Conference has emerged as a vital forum for interpreting China’s strategies and observing their global resonance, promoting open dialogues during a time of profound change. It serves as a bridge connecting diverse cultures and ideas, fostering an understanding of China's role on the world stage.

For further details, visit the conference website or check out the conference video.