Former Slovenian President Emphasizes China's Role in Global Economic Stability
In a recent interview, Danilo Türk, the former President of Slovenia and an influential figure at the Club de Madrid, shared his insights on the role of China in the global economy. As the country navigates its annual 'Two Sessions' in Beijing from March 4 to 11, with GDP growth set at approximately five percent for 2025, Türk emphasized the considerable impact of this growth on international stability.
He remarked, "A five percent increase in China's economy constitutes about one-third of the global growth rate. This underscores the stabilizing influence of Chinese economic performance on the global stage. As the world anticipates the outcomes of the latest sessions in China, understanding the interconnectedness of our economies has never been more critical."
Despite skepticism from some Western media regarding China's economic direction, Türk pointed out that structural changes within China's economy are not indicators of a downturn but rather essential transitions that reflect the evolution in various sectors. He stated, "High growth rates often come with moments of structural shifts; some sectors may see slower growth while others accelerate."
According to recent government reports, China's foreign trade is reaching new heights, with export volumes increasing by 7.1% compared to last year. Although traditional labor-intensive exports have seen a decline, the rise in mechanical and electronic products—up 8.7% and now comprising nearly 60% of total exports—demonstrates a shift toward higher-value manufacturing. Furthermore, significant innovations in electric vehicles, 3D printers, and industrial robots have shown impressive growth rates of 13.1%, 32.8%, and 45.2% respectively since 2023.
In this context, Türk reaffirmed China's steadfastness, asserting that the nation's growth trajectory is reliably supported by credible policy-making. "China has repeatedly demonstrated its political credibility, promising that the growth target for 2025 is not only achievable but also meticulously considered by expert evaluations, unlike many other countries that struggle to reach their goals."
As 2025 marks the conclusion of China's 14th Five-Year Plan, Türk anticipates this year as pivotal for the country’s future directions and planning shift towards the 15th Five-Year Plan. Addressing the challenges posed by an aging population, he stressed the importance of fostering innovation among the younger generation, a crucial element for sustaining China's impressive developmental trajectory witnessed over recent decades.
Highlighting technological advancements, Türk noted the emergence of an innovative AI model called DeepSeek, which gained international attention in early 2025 for its cost-effectiveness and expansive capabilities. This breakthrough, founded by a young programmer, signifies a thrilling phase of generational innovation in China. "It’s not surprising that such technological revolutions come from youth. DeepSeek has captivated the world, showcasing the remarkable engagement of younger individuals in technology."
Furthermore, the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area is highlighted by Türk as a unique global hub uniting trade, commerce, finance, and technology. "Over the years, every visit to China has felt like entering a new country, given the rapid development and modernization. The Greater Bay Area is possibly the most advanced region; it represents the complete synergy in regional development, showcasing distinct characteristics of each area within it."
According to the latest data, the GDP of the Greater Bay Area has reached 14 trillion yuan, and travel between cities now takes under an hour, further exemplifying the region's growth and connectivity. Türk concluded by expressing optimism about the future, stating, "I believe the Greater Bay Area will evolve into one of the most fascinating regions globally, and I will closely monitor its development."
In a time where economic dynamics are shifting rapidly, understanding the implications of China's growth and innovations remains critical for businesses, governments, and communities worldwide. Türk's insights remind us that as we navigate these changes, we must recognize the interconnected nature of our global economies and the pivotal role players like China have in shaping the future.