Seminar on Chinese Modernization and African Development (Anhui)

• Speeches
• 30 Oct, 2024

Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests and Scholars,
Friends, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning,
I want to thank the organizers and Anhui Academy of Governance the host of this timely seminar on Chinese Modernization and African Development for inviting me to address and participate in this noble discourse of promoting exchanges and cooperation between China and Africa. On behalf of all the participants from Africa, we are grateful. Distinguished Guests Currently, the global community finds itself at a critical juncture where divergent perspectives on modernization, development, and anti-globalization trends intersect.

This intersection represents a pivotal moment characterized by multifaceted debates and discord surrounding the trajectory of global socio-economic growth. Contemporary discourse underscores the tension between proponents advocating for intensified global modernization and development strategies to foster economic growth and development, and critics advocating anti-globalization sentiments such as politics of protectionism, isolationism, and hegemony. Africa and China are also at a crossroad challenging the perceived negative externalities of globalization. 

For China, its independent path to modernization gathered a new momentum after the 1978 reform and opening-up policies that introduced foreign capital and technology while maintaining its commitment to socialism with Chinese characteristics. This transformed China from a poor and underdeveloped economy into an economic powerhouse. Further, in embracing the philosophy of building a community with a shared future for mankind, China’s development strategy did not stop at its borders. In the 21st century, Chinese modernization has become integral to Africa’s rising narrative, inspiring the continent’s pursuit of its independent path to modernization.