Book series launched to explain all things China to rest of world

A new series of books about China was promoted at the 2018 BookExpo America at the Javits Convention Center in New York on Thursday and Friday.

The Understanding China series focuses on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and the work of the CPC Central Committee with Xi Jinping at the core in governing the country since the Party’s 18th National Congress in November 2012.

It explores the historic changes and rejuvenation of China from multiple angles.

The series takes up fundamental questions like “Where did we come from?” and “Where are we going?” for the international community.

The series also explores China’s development and shares the nation’s wisdom and experiences.

It is being compiled by renowned Chinese and foreign scholars and was jointly planned and compiled by China International Publishing Group and China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy.

First to appear are more than 20 volumes written by such distinguished officials and scholars as Zheng Bijian, Wang Meng, Bai Chunli, Xie Zhenhua and Chen Xiwen.

“The books tell China’s stories, clearly explain the CPC’s successful experiences, and promote Chinese-foreign cultural exchanges and mutual learning,” said Hu Kaimin, deputy chief editor of the Foreign Languages Press, a co-publisher of the series, at a promotional event at the BookExpo on Friday.

Hu said he is confident that the series “will be accepted, loved and valued by US readers and friends in various sectors”

The series will “provide a wealth of information and profound insights for the international community in understanding Chinese culture and choices, and adapting to the development of China”, Hu added.

A co-publishing signing ceremony was held at the event, with representatives from the Foreign Language Press, China Institute for Innovation & Development Strategy and Berggruen Institute (21st Century Council) signing the three-party cooperation agreements on co-publishing the series overseas.

Speaking at the event, Dawn Nakagawa, executive vice-president of the Berggruen Institute, said the two very different countries need to find commonalities.

“If we are listening to each other and willing to learn from each other perhaps it would benefit both of our governance systems,” she said.