Putting People Above All

Telling good stories about China’s modernisation key to promoting a better understanding

With over 200 countries and regions, more than 2,500 ethnic groups, and various religions in existence today, different civilisations have evolved, based on diverse histories, national conditions and customs. People-to-people exchanges and interactions play a crucial role in promoting people-to-people ties and enhancing exchanges and mutual learning. In today’s world, as changes unseen in a century accelerate, exchanges and mutual learning between diverse cultures are more necessary and important than ever.

A bridge of friendly exchange and integration should be built based on the coexistence of civilisations. The exchanges and mutual learning between civilisations should not be based on the monopoly of one civilisation or denigration of another. Only by respecting the diversity of civilisations and promoting dialogue, peaceful coexistence and harmony among civilisations can the richness of human civilisation be enhanced, and the prospects for human development become brighter.

We should implement the Global Development Initiative and the Global Security Initiative and follow the prevailing trend of our times - peace and development. We should draw on the best of all civilisations to adopt a people-first development philosophy, a development vision of mutual benefit, a development approach of harmonious coexistence, and measures to enhance solidarity and cooperation. We should respond to the call of people worldwide for peace and development, promote building a community with a shared future for humankind, and seek the broadest common understanding on building a beautiful world.

China’s modernisation drive

Chinese modernisation has broken away from the patterns of Western-style modernisation. It has proven its feasibility and effectiveness, representing a significant innovation of the global modernisation theory and practice. For many developing countries, it offers an alternative to independent modernisation paths.

Telling good stories of Chinese modernisation is key to overcoming international prejudices against China and helping the world to understand the Communist Party of China (CPC), China, and the Chinese

(XINHUA) Chinese artists perform during the launch ceremony of the 2024 Cambodia-China People-toPeople Exchange Year in Siem Reap Province, Cambodia, on 13 January