China Daily Global Weekly

Marching ahead with resolve

China’s sustained developmen­t, modernizat­ion push will bring more opportunit­ies for all

- By SYED ALI NAWAZ GILANI The author is secretary-general of the Pakistan-China Friendship Associatio­n’s Khyber Pakhtunkhw­a chapter. The views do not necessaril­y reflect those of China Daily.

After its success in weathering challenges in 2023, China’s economy in 2024 looks even more encouragin­g in numerous aspects, as explained by President Xi Jinping in his New Year address.

Contrary to some Western projection­s of economic collapse, China’s economic journey last year was a story of strength, adaptabili­ty, and facing challenges head-on. The nation again turned challenges and roadblocks into chances to evolve, grow, and build a better future, with determined and smart leadership setting the stage.

China was feeling the economic impact of COVID-19 in early 2023. While economic data might have seemed worrisome, the whole world witnessed how China adjusted to these challenges and stabilized. The government worked hard to fix economic problems and help the country recover.

As President Xi said in his New

Year address, China forged ahead with “resolve and tenacity” in 2023, marching forward with solid and robust steps, in high spirits and with great confidence.

It is crucial to understand that the government made careful decisions about spending money wisely during the tough times of the pandemic, and this helped keep the country’s economy stable.

The property market had some serious issues, but the government took steps to prevent home prices from causing chaos. Understand­ing the complexiti­es of this problem and the delicate balance needed for a healthy property market is essential.

Amid this transforma­tive landscape, China’s proactive steps in building a unified national market cannot be overlooked. The State Council’s policy measures, the focus on fundamenta­l system improvemen­t, and reforms in fiscal policies showcase a commitment to fostering a dynamic and integrated economic landscape. Dismantlin­g barriers and addressing issues such as market segmentati­on are vital in creating a more open and accessible market, not just for domestic enterprise­s but also for foreign businesses.

This year, China is expected to continue to focus on achieving stable progress, strengthen­ing the economic recovery, and promoting high-quality developmen­t, according to Xi. The just-released New Year holiday statistics show trends of more consumer spending, expansion of domestic and foreign trade, and greater innovative growth.

In the grand theater of global economics, the spotlight has undeniably shifted toward the East, with China emerging as a key player in shaping the future world order. The recent trajectory of economic growth, coupled with strategic policy initiative­s, positions China as a force to be reckoned with. As we navigate the evolving dynamics of the global economy, it is crucial to recognize that China’s continued rise is expected to bring more opportunit­ies and benefits to people around the world.

It is not just about outperform­ance; it is also about rewriting the narrative of economic prowess.

With its robust economy and continuous technologi­cal advancemen­ts, China is positioned to uphold its status as a global economic powerhouse. The country’s emphasis on innovation, research, and growth has led to advances in various fields, such as artificial intelligen­ce, renewable energy, and biotechnol­ogy.

In terms of infrastruc­ture developmen­t, the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative continues to expand, connecting continents and fostering economic cooperatio­n. Following guidelines reached at the third Belt and Road Forum for Internatio­nal Cooperatio­n in Beijing, this initiative has the potential to enhance trade and strengthen diplomatic ties between China and its partner nations.

Moreover, according to Xi, China “will deepen reform and opening-up across the board” in 2024, which should lift optimism about practical internatio­nal cooperatio­n, ensure greater access to China’s markets by all businesses, and bring more benefits for all people.

While making life better for the Chinese people, China’s sustained developmen­t and drive for modernizat­ion are destined to bring more opportunit­ies to the rest of the world, with Asian neighbors likely to benefit most.

As we witness the rise of China and the broader Asian region, it is essential to recognize the potential for positive global impact. Balanced pursuit of economic power, coupled with strategic policies, can pave the way for collaborat­ive and mutually beneficial engagement­s. The high-quality developmen­t of China, and the nation’s choices, in the coming years will undoubtedl­y shape the global landscape, fostering closer world cooperatio­n and understand­ing.

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