#China #Guangzhou #Understanding China #Zheng Bijian

The 2024 Understanding China Conference: A Call for Global Unity

The 2024 Understanding China Conference kicked off on December 3 in the bustling city of Guangzhou, gathering a diverse group of global leaders, esteemed scholars, and industry experts. The central theme of the conference revolves around the important topic: "Carry Through the Reform to the End Chinese Modernization and New Opportunities for World Development." This event serves as a platform for meaningful discussions on China's modernization journey and its global implications.

A standout moment of the conference was the address delivered by Zheng Bijian, the distinguished 93-year-old founding chairman of the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy. As he took the stage in a wheelchair, the audience erupted into warm applause, a testament to his lifetime commitment to fostering a deeper understanding of China's narrative on the world stage. Zheng’s insightful remarks captivated attendees as he outlined several critical components necessary to comprehend China's path towards modernization.

Key Elements of Chinese Modernization

Zheng emphasized that understanding China's reforms is fundamental to grasping its historical context, current dynamics, and future direction. He articulated three primary pillars that he believes are essential:
1. Grasping Reforms: Recognizing the evolution of reforms in China is vital for understanding its past, present, and future.
2. Blueprint for Modernization: He presented Chinese modernization as a comprehensive blueprint for reform on a larger scale.
3. Global Opportunities: Zheng articulated the notion that the modernization journey offers new avenues for cooperation and progress in global development, advocating that nations view these transitions as opportunities for mutual benefit.

As he remarked, "The best way to grasp China's new round of reform and development is to closely follow the path of Chinese modernization." This call to action resonates with Zheng’s conviction that openness is a defining characteristic of this modernization era.

Emphasizing Openness in Policy

Zheng addressed recent concerns surrounding global economic decoupling and supply chain challenges, unequivocally stating, "China will never pursue closed, self-contained modernization. On the contrary, we value openness and will actively align with international economic and trade standards." He emphasized China's commitment to reforming trade and investment frameworks, aiming to create a business environment conducive to international collaboration.

Some pivotal policies mentioned included the lifting of restrictions on foreign capital investments in the financial sector, the removal of limits on manufacturing investments, and the expansion of visa-free travel agreements to 38 countries. Additionally, the implementation of a 72- to 144-hour transit visa exemption for 54 nations highlights China’s ongoing efforts to enhance global engagement.

A Warm Welcome for International Participation

In his closing remarks, Zheng reaffirmed China's readiness to engage international partners in its modernization journey, stating, "China's reform and development represent opportunities for all nations." This openness to collaboration reflects why the global community acknowledges the strength of China's reforms and the resilience of its economy.

The 2024 Understanding China Conference thus stands as a significant international platform, co-organized by the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy, the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs, and the People's Government of Guangdong Province. It aims to deepen global appreciation of China's modernization efforts, reform strategies, and the broader implications these hold for global development.

This event not only marks a pivotal moment in China’s ongoing narrative on the world stage but also serves as an invitation for nations to come together, fostering an environment of collaboration and understanding in a rapidly changing global landscape.