China's first lithium-sodium hybrid station powers 270,000 homes with green energy
China just fired up a next-gen battery hub blending lithium and sodium in its latest energy leap.
On Sunday, its first lithium-sodium hybrid energy storage station began operation, marking a major step toward hybrid battery storage at scale.
Located in Southwest China's Yunnan Province, the Baochi Energy Storage Station (BESS) combines the strengths of lithium and sodium-ion batteries.
The hybrid system offers longer cycle life, faster response, and stable performance across temperatures ranging from -20°C to 45°C, according to Science and Technology Daily.
Thanks to China's abundant sodium resources, the setup also provides a more cost-effective solution for large-scale energy storage, the Global Times reported.
Sprawling across about 50 mu (3.3 hectares), roughly the size of five football fields, the facility has an installed capacity of 400 megawatt-hours. It can complete two full charge-discharge cycles daily, delivering up to 580 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. This amount is enough to power nearly 270,000 households each year.
Nearly 98 percent of the energy comes from renewable sources.
At the core of BESS is China's first large-capacity sodium-ion battery system, which responds six times faster than conventional models. By coupling these advanced sodium batteries with mature lithium technology, the station enhances grid regulation and ensures smoother integration of wind and solar power.
The hybrid system serves more than 30 renewable energy plants across Yunnan, a province where clean energy accounts for nearly 70 percent of the power supply. With such a high share of renewables, grid stability becomes a major concern, making innovations like BESS essential for balancing supply and demand.
"The station serves over 30 wind and solar power plants in Yunnan. The lithium-sodium hybrid technology enables more stable integration of large-scale renewables into the power grid and supports future participation in electricity market trading," Wu Bin, deputy manager of the Baochi Energy Storage Station project, told CCTV News.
The system can flexibly adjust its charging and discharging modes based on the availability of new energy to help balance the volatility of renewables.
It has potential applications in regions with high shares of renewable energy in China—such as Tibet, Xinjiang, Gansu, and Ningxia—where it can support the stable delivery of power from renewable bases located in deserts, the Gobi, and other wasteland areas.
As demand for lithium surges globally, concerns about resource constraints and import dependency are mounting. China currently imports about 70 percent of its lithium battery materials.
In contrast, sodium—sourced from salt lakes, seawater, and mines—is far more abundant available domestically and have more favorable properties, including stable operation across a 45 C temperature range.
"Seventy percent of the production materials of lithium batteries in China come from overseas, making the production highly dependent on imports. The raw materials of sodium batteries can be extracted from salt mines, seawater, and salt lakes. The sodium resources of the Qarhan Salt Lake alone are 500 times the global lithium resources," Chen Man, a member of the National Electric Energy Storage Technical Committee, was quoted by CCTV news as saying.
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Global Times: Readers' Reflections: China is reshaping the global innovation landscape, says Italian scholar
06/04/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // May 30, 2025 marks the ninth National Science and Technology Workers Day. In the early morning of the previous day, Tianwen-2, the country's first asteroid probe and sampling mission, soared into the sky, carrying with it humanity's aspirations for the stars and the universe. The nation will thrive when science and technology develops, and the country will be strong when science and technology becomes advanced. The book series of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China contains multiple important speeches on science and technology. In the article 'Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology' included in the fourth volume of the book series, President Xi emphasized that science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity. 'We should participate to the full in global science and technology governance, contribute Chinese wisdom, and shape a philosophy of technology for good purposes, so that science and technology better serve human wellbeing, and enable China's science and technology industry to contribute more to building a global community of shared future!' In the fifth installment of the 'Decoding the Book of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China " series, the Global Times, along with People's Daily Overseas Edition, focuses on the theme of 'practicing the philosophy of technology for good purposes and polishing China's new name card in scientific and technological innovation.' We continue to invite Chinese and international scholars, translators of the work, practitioners of its concepts, and overseas readers to share their insights, understandings and reflection on China's philosophy of science and technology development and international cooperation. In the fifth article of the 'Readers' Reflections' column, Global Times (GT) reporter Ma Tong talked to Fabio Massimo Parenti (Parenti), an Associate Professor of International Political Economy at the China Foreign Affairs University, and a scholar of international studies at the Italian International Institute Lorenzo de' Medici. GT: The world today is undergoing major changes unseen in a century. China is promoting cooperation with Global South countries through concrete plans and pragmatic measures, particularly in areas such as technology transfer, digital infrastructure building and patent sharing. In his speech at a national science and technology conference on June 24, 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized to be 'open to cooperation in science and technology for the benefit of mankind and pursue a mutually beneficial strategy of opening up.' How do you assess the outcomes of China-Global South tech cooperation in recent years? Compared to traditional cooperation models dominated by developed countries, how do you see China's approach? Parenti: South-South technological cooperation has grown significantly over the past decade, becoming one of the central pillars of Beijing's foreign policy. Unlike the traditional Western-led development models, China's approach is pragmatic, prioritizing mutual benefit and non-interference. The latter has delivered tangible outcomes, especially in technology transfer and digital development, aligning with President Xi's governance philosophy that 'science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity.' In agricultural cooperation, China has established over 20 agricultural technology demonstration centers in Africa, contributing to global food security. Through the Digital Silk Road initiative, China has helped build fiber-optic networks, data centers, and e-government platforms in many of these nations. An iconic example is China's partnership with Ethiopia, particularly in the telecommunications and agriculture sectors. In 2021, Chinese companies, represented by Huawei, played a key role in expanding Ethiopia's telecom infrastructure, providing low-cost mobile internet to rural areas and improving access to digital services. Chinese experts introduced hybrid rice strains and drip irrigation techniques, advancing local agricultural development. China's approach stands out from traditional Western models of international cooperation due to its focus on reciprocity, long-term infrastructure investment, and the lack of political strings attached. GT: In the article 'Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology' from the fourth volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China , President Xi emphasizes that 'major science and technology programs should focus on solving the most pressing problems.' In cooperation with Global South countries, China adheres to a people-centered and demand-driven approach, prioritizing long-term investment and capacity building. How do you assess China's contributions in this area? What impact do they have on technological and economic development in Global South countries? Parenti: China's mutually beneficial technology cooperation with Global South countries has made meaningful contributions to enhancing these nations' independent development capabilities. China-promoted training programs in fields such as agriculture, ICT, public health, and engineering are involving thousands of technical personnel from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. For instance, nations like Kenya, Egypt and Pakistan host joint laboratories or research centers co-funded by Chinese institutions. Similar efforts are evident in educational initiatives under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and BRICS frameworks. President Xi stressed that 'major science and technology programs should focus on solving the most pressing problems.' This philosophy has driven Chinese programs tailored to address desertification in North Africa through solar-powered water pumps and drip irrigation, tackle public health crises via China-supported vaccine production facilities in Indonesia, Egypt, and Brazil, and advance e-commerce and fintech through Alipay-backed mobile payment pilots in rural Africa. Beyond exporting hardware, China is actively promoting the joint construction of innovation ecosystems, such as establishing technology parks like the China-Brazil Agricultural Science Industrial Park, and promoting Satellite and Space Cooperation, providing critical data and services for agriculture, disaster response, and climate monitoring. Joint bilateral projects in green energy, AI, and aerospace, such as China's satellite launches with countries like Nigeria, Pakistan, and Venezuela, are creating numerous opportunities to strengthen these countries' capacities for national independence and autonomous development. The satellite launch cooperation between China and countries such as Nigeria, Pakistan and Venezuela is a typical example of such collaborative efforts. These initiatives are reshaping the autonomy of many Global South nations by providing a partnership model that is not paternalistic and effectively supporting these nations in achieving autonomous and sustainable development. GT: In the article 'Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology,' President Xi also calls to 'participate to the full in global science and technology governance, contribute Chinese wisdom, and shape a philosophy of technology for good purposes, so that science and technology better serve human wellbeing, and enable China's science and technology industry to contribute more to building a global community of shared future.' Taking the global green transition as an example, how do you evaluate China's technological advancements and industrial progress in new energy? What positive impacts will these have on addressing global climate change, particularly in helping Global South countries tackle energy challenges? Parenti: China's technological and industrial leap in new energy sector is a unique story of the 21st century. In a video address at the opening ceremony of the celebration for the 60th anniversary of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in 2024, President Xi said that 'all sides need to harness the historic opportunity for innovation-driven development. It is important to build an open, inclusive and non-discriminatory environment for the digital economy, follow the people-centered, AI-for-good principle and strengthen AI-related rules and governance within the framework of the United Nations, actively advance green transition, and help developing countries join the trend of digital, smart and green development.' This vision offers 'Chinese solutions' that aim to be inclusive, innovation-driven, and sustainable. The new energy sector serves as a compelling and practical example of this strategic vision in practice. China has become the world's largest producer of solar panels, wind turbines, and electric vehicles (EVs), and a dominant supplier of lithium-ion batteries. In 2024, the country installed more renewable energy capacity than the rest of the world combined – a feat driven by the research and development efforts of Chinese firms underpinned by national strategies and policy incentives. One illustrative case is the State Grid Corporation of China, which is advancing ultra-high-voltage transmission systems to enable the long-distance delivery of clean energy. The affordability of Chinese-made solar panels has also made large-scale solar farms viable in countries ranging from Kenya and Brazil to Pakistan. Beyond exports, China supports local assembly and manufacturing of EVs, batteries, and solar components in partner countries, with technology transfer often embedded in infrastructure agreements to foster local industrial ecosystems. In his special address to the 2022 World Economic Forum virtual session, President Xi called to 'uphold the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, promote international cooperation on climate change in the context of development, and implement the outcomes of COP26 to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.' China is actively shaping the rules and standards of the new energy market through multilateral frameworks such as the UN, the G77 and BRICS. Under initiatives like the BRI, it offers shared infrastructure development to Global South nations without imposing political conditions. GT: In the article 'Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology', President Xi noted that 'science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity.' China is leading initiatives such as the Initiative on International Cooperation in Open Science, co-launched with Brazil, South Africa, and the African Union, to promote global technology and innovation cooperation. In the context of key technologies being long monopolized by a few countries, how will these initiatives within the Global South shape the global landscape of technological innovation? Parenti: China's push for open science cooperation through initiatives like the Initiative on International Cooperation in Open Science reflects a broader effort to reshape the global innovation landscape. Central to this initiative is a principle repeatedly underscored by the Chinese leadership that science and technology belong to all of humanity. This paradigm challenges the current high-tech landscape dominated by a handful of countries and major tech corporations. If successful, these South-South cooperation mechanisms could help foster a more multipolar, inclusive, and resilient global technology governance order. China-led South-South science and tech cooperation seeks breakthroughs along three key pathways: establishing knowledge-sharing mechanisms to dismantle structural barriers to technology access; setting up regional innovation hubs across Africa, Asia, and Latin America; and advancing joint research and development projects to replace traditional top-down aid models. A notable example is China's collaboration with Brazil in establishing a joint laboratory for agricultural science and with South Africa in establishing a genomics center, enabling local institutions to jointly participate in the development of tailored solutions. This model of equal and mutually beneficial cooperation demonstrates that true technological self-reliance can only be achieved by fostering indigenous innovation within a fair and inclusive international research environment. By promoting openness and sharing scientific resources, China is not only contributing 'Chinese wisdom' to the world, but also taking meaningful steps toward reshaping a more balanced and equitable global governance system for science and technology. GT: This year marks 70 years since the Bandung Conference, which kick-started South-South cooperation by uniting nations to promote solidarity and respect for sovereignty. Today, however, global issues like a slow economic recovery, shifting supply chains, and the climate crisis are posing new challenges. How are these issues playing out in real-world terms? How do see the potentials for cooperation between the Global South and developed nations? And what particular role can China play in fostering this cooperation and building a shared global future? Parenti: The 70th anniversary of the Bandung Conference is more than just symbolic. The Bandung Spirit – with its call for solidarity, friendship, and cooperation—still resonate today. Yet, modern challenges call for fresh approaches to coordination, not just within the Global South but also between the South and the North. Issues like crippling foreign debt, the digital divide, and uneven development are global problems that erode international solidarity, as nations increasingly retreat into inward-looking policies under domestic pressures. More alarmingly, the West's 'de-risking' strategy toward China is fracturing global trade and investment systems. All of this heightens the risk of a new techno-economic divide, particularly in sectors such as electric vehicles, semiconductors, and biotechnology. To overcome the current impasse, pragmatic cooperation among nations is essential. What's required is a reform of multilateral institutions such as the G20, IMF, and WTO, so they can truly reflect today's global realities, amplify the voice of developing countries, and advance the democratization of international relations. China is uniquely positioned to serve as a bridge in this process. As a technological and industrial powerhouse emerging from the Global South, China understands the developmental needs of the South while possessing the capacity to engage deeply with developed countries' systems. The way forward lies in fostering complementarity between the Western-dominant traditional international institutions and the newer initiatives led by China. Together, they can help build a non-hegemonic model of development cooperation grounded in mutual benefit, respect for sovereignty, and non-interference. This approach is not about confronting the West, but about offering an alternative model of governance – one that opens up new possibilities for shaping a more inclusive global development narrative. This story first appeared in Global Times: Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: City: Beijing Disclaimer: This press release may contain forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies (including product offerings, regulatory plans and business plans) and may change without notice. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. This content was first published by KISS PR Brand Story. Read here >> Global Times: Readers' Reflections: China is reshaping the global innovation landscape, says Italian scholar
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Scholars' Perspectives: 'For good purposes' serves as the greatest common denominator of global technology development, says member of UN advisory body on AI
BEIJING, June 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- May 30, 2025 marks the ninth National Science and Technology Workers Day. In the early morning of the previous day, Tianwen-2, the country's first asteroid probe and sampling mission, soared into the sky, carrying with it humanity's aspirations for the stars and the universe. The nation will thrive when science and technology develops, and the country will be strong when science and technology becomes advanced. The book series of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China contains multiple important speeches on science and technology. In the article "Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology" included in the fourth volume of the book series, President Xi emphasized that science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity. "We should participate to the full in global science and technology governance, contribute Chinese wisdom, and shape a philosophy of technology for good purposes, so that science and technology better serve human wellbeing, and enable China's science and technology industry to contribute more to building a global community of shared future!" In the fifth installment of the "Decoding the Book of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" series, the Global Times, along with People's Daily Overseas Edition, focuses on the theme of "practicing the philosophy of technology for good purposes and polishing China's new name card in scientific and technological innovation." We continue to invite Chinese and international scholars, translators of the work, practitioners of its concepts, and overseas readers to share their insights, understandings and reflection on China's philosophy of science and technology development and international cooperation. In the fourth article of the "Scholars' Perspectives" column, which comprises interviews with and signed articles from renowned scholars across various countries, Global Times (GT) reporter Liu Caiyu and Chen Qingqing talked to Zhang Linghan, a professor from China University of Political Science and Law who is also a member of the UN High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence. Global Times: Addressing a meeting conflating the general assemblies of the members of the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and the national congress of the China Association for Science and Technology on May 28, 2021, Chinese President Xi Jinping said "We should participate to the full in global science and technology governance, contribute Chinese wisdom, and shape a philosophy of technology for good purposes, so that science and technology better serve human wellbeing, and enable China's science and technology industry to contribute more to building a global community of shared future." Today, as human beings step into the AI era, how do you interpret the concept of "technology for good purposes" that the Chinese leader has mentioned? How can we practice this concept? Zhang Linghan: China's concept of "technology for good purposes" can be understood from three perspectives. First is the positive development of technology itself. For example, the development of artificial intelligence technology in China has always adhered to the principles of "people-centered" and "intelligence for good," emphasizing that technology is a tool for serving humanity. Its development must align with the overall interests of humanity, ethical norms, and long-term well-being, highlighting the importance of "safety, reliability, and controllability" in the research, development, and application of AI technology. On AI products and services, China has very strict corporate compliance standards, requiring companies to take on social responsibilities alongside their responsibilities for technology research, development, and application. Secondly, empowering social development toward goodness through technology. For example, the widespread application of generative AI will liberate humanity from mechanical and repetitive labor, enabling people to engage in more creative and innovative work. In the field of public services, after the open-source release of large language models like DeepSeek, various platforms are integrating these technologies, which will promote the development of public services such as healthcare and education toward a more inclusive direction. Thirdly, promoting the construction of a "community with a shared future for mankind" through the concept of "technology for good purposes." The ideas of "technology for good purposes" and "community with a shared future for mankind" are rooted in the traditional culture of China and the practice of socialism with Chinese characteristics. They emphasize that the ultimate goal of technological development is to serve sustainable development and the common good of all humanity. The term "common good" takes into account the different values and practical needs of various countries. Therefore, in a world full of uncertainties, "for good purposes" serves as the greatest common denominator that transcends differences and fosters consensus. China's commitment to "for good purposes" is "people-centered," insisting that AI be treated as a public product that serves all humanity. China not only hopes to enhance its national strength and improve the living standards of its people through AI but also aims to strengthen international cooperation and exchanges in the field of technology, achieving the open sharing of technological development outcomes on a global scale. In practice, it can be seen that China, as a responsible major country, has actively taken on the responsibility of helping developing countries strengthen their artificial intelligence capacity building, contributing Chinese strength to bridging the global digital divide. Global Times: On the afternoon of April 25, 2025, the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee held its 20th group study session, which focused on strengthening the development and regulation of artificial intelligence (AI). While presiding over the session, Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, said in the face of the rapid evolution of new-generation AI technologies, China must fully leverage the strengths of the new system for mobilizing the resources nationwide, achieve self-reliance and strength in this regard, and prioritize practical application so as to promote the healthy and orderly development of AI in the country in a beneficial, safe and fair manner. In your opinion, how does China's new system for mobilizing the resources nationwide help our country achieve self-reliance and self-strengthening in science and technology? With this system, what advantages does China have in AI technology? Zhang Linghan: In recent years, the advantages of China's new system for mobilizing the resources nationwide have become quite evident. Essentially, AI is a resource-intensive industry that requires vast amounts of data, complex algorithms, and powerful computing capabilities. Achieving self-reliance in AI not only requires advanced technologies but also sufficient resource investment and energy security. This places high demands on technology, funding, human resources, and energy, thereby highlighting the significant institutional advantages of the new type of national system in terms of its overall coordination, prudence, and foundational nature. In promoting technological breakthroughs, the government can start from the overall national interest and systematically plan the path for technological innovation. This approach can overcome the short-term behaviors of the market in fundamental and cutting-edge technology fields, allowing for the concentration of human, financial, and material resources to rapidly and efficiently advance the research and development of core technologies. It helps to avoid resource dispersion and redundant waste, especially for high-difficulty, high-investment, and strategic projects, such as the BeiDou Navigation System and the Chang'e lunar exploration program, which both fall into this category. In terms of promoting industrial development, taking electric power resources as an example, the development of AI, which includes data storage and processing, algorithm operation, and model training, relies heavily on power support. China has built a globally leading green power infrastructure system. In 2023, China's total electricity generation ranked first in the world, and it has maintained stable growth in 2024. This provides a solid and environmentally friendly foundation for the development of the AI industry. In terms of enhancing security guarantees, China emphasizes achieving a "strategic balance" between development and governance. To adapt to the uncertainties brought about by the rapid development of the AI industry, we have introduced an "adaptive governance" concept that combines flexibility and foresight, ultimately aiming for a situation where the technology development is both healthy, safe and reliable. Global Times: Let's talk about how China can engage more deeply in global science and technology governance. As a member of the UN High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence, how would you assess China's current level of participation in global tech governance based on your experience? What are the bottlenecks? Could you share some insights from your own experience? Zhang Linghan: In my personal view, China is already firmly in the top tier of global science and technology governance, especially in the field of AI. From groundbreaking technological advances like DeepSeek that have captured global attention, to the widespread application of AI across industries, and active participation in shaping international norms on multilateral platforms such as the UN, China is deeply engaged and making significant contributions. In many areas, its role has become increasingly indispensable. The UN High-Level Advisory Body on AI is composed of 39 experts in the AI field from 33 countries and a wide range of industries. Since its establishment, we have held over 100 online meetings and three in-person sessions. Within the UN system, many other international organizations—such as UNESCO, the International Telecommunication Union, and the World Intellectual Property Organization—are also engaged in specialized aspects of AI governance. Through my participation in these international governance efforts, I've clearly felt that the perspectives and proposals from Chinese experts are increasingly being heard and valued. It is no exaggeration to say that China's governance practices and experiences are continuously contributing innovative ideas and valuable insights to the development of a global AI governance framework. For example, when discussing how to balance AI development with safety and how to build an adaptive governance framework, we shared governance approaches based on China's experience—such as the "small, fast, and flexible" legislative model—which drew considerable interest and discussion among international experts. This model, explored in recent years in China, is characterized by "small scope, fast cycle, and flexible format," aiming to precisely address real-world problems. Some Global South countries, during their own legislative processes, sought guidance and advice from Chinese experts through the UN and other international organizations. All of this highlights China's growing engagement and contribution to the global AI governance agenda. Behind the growing global attention lies China's advanced governance practices and systematic experience accumulated over time in AI governance field. It is fair to say that it is the result of strategic national planning, sustained investment, and active exploration that has enabled us not only to speak with professional confidence in multilateral and bilateral dialogues, but also to expand our space for expressing views and participating in global discussions. In September 2024, world leaders adopted the Pact for the Future at the Summit of the Future, with several sections on AI governance incorporating recommendations from the UN High-Level Advisory Body. Being able to participate in such a major global governance agenda as a Chinese expert brings me a profound sense of responsibility and mission. If we are to discuss the challenges, it must be acknowledged that the current global AI governance landscape remains noticeably fragmented. Countries differ significantly in their governance philosophies, regulatory approaches, and institutional designs. In light of this, greater attention should be given to the positive momentum of "seeking common ground while reserving differences" in global AI governance practices. A particularly illustrative example is China's pioneering establishment of an AI labeling system, which has since been referenced and adopted by a growing number of legislative efforts in the US, the EU, and beyond—becoming an increasingly important component in the global governance toolbox. Overall, global AI governance remains in a crucial window of opportunity. The initiatives proposed by China not only reflect the country's distinctive governance philosophy developed through its own AI practices, but also directly address the shared concerns and practical needs of the international community—particularly those of developing countries. China's proactive role in advancing global AI governance is helping to shape a governance architecture that is more balanced, inclusive, and beneficial for all. This, in turn, serves as a vivid example of China's growing engagement in global science and technology governance, and its contribution of Chinese solutions and wisdom to the world. Global Times: In recent years, accelerated technological iteration and increasing geopolitical tensions have become defining trends in the global tech landscape. On one hand, the pace of innovation is quickening, and technology is playing an increasingly pivotal role in societal transformation. On the other hand, under the influence of great-power competition and other factors, global technological development is exhibiting signs of de-globalization and fragmentation. China's rise in science and technology has faced well-known "chokepoint" challenges. What should China do in response? Against this backdrop, how should we understand President Xi's call for "China's science and technology to make greater contributions to building a community with a shared future for humanity." Zhang Linghan: Science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity. President Xi proposed that China's science and technology should make greater contributions to building a community with a shared future for humanity. In its participation in global science and technology governance, China has consistently upheld the principles of multilateralism, openness and inclusiveness, and fairness and justice. China also looks forward to working with countries around the world to build consensus through equal dialogue and sincere consultation, and to foster mutual trust through pragmatic cooperation. In recent years, through extensive exchanges with Global South countries, I have increasingly felt their strong expectation for China to play a responsible role as a major power. These countries not only hope that China can assist them in developing AI technologies and applications to prevent the widening of the technological divide, but more importantly, they see in China's vision of a "community with a shared future for mankind" a future for AI that is truly open, secure, trustworthy, and beneficial to all of humanity. During the training programs I have participated in with officials and entrepreneurs from BRICS nations and Belt and Road partner countries, I often notice a surge of interest and engagement after introducing China's AI governance philosophy, core values, and successful experiences. Many of the participants are especially eager to learn from China's approach to AI governance, industrial development models, and digital infrastructure building, hoping to apply these experience to their own national development. It fills me with pride to see that China's ideas, systems, and development path are being increasingly recognized and welcomed by a growing number of countries. View original content: SOURCE Global Times Sign in to access your portfolio
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Translators' Voices: China shares technological achievements with the world for mutual benefit
BEIJING, June 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- May 30, 2025 marks the ninth National Science and Technology Workers Day. In the early morning of the previous day, Tianwen-2, the country's first asteroid probe and sampling mission, soared into the sky, carrying with it humanity's aspirations for the stars and the universe. The nation will thrive when science and technology develops, and the country will be strong when science and technology becomes advanced. The book series of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China contains multiple important speeches on science and technology. In the article "Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology" included in the fourth volume of the book series, President Xi emphasized that science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity. "We should participate to the full in global science and technology governance, contribute Chinese wisdom, and shape a philosophy of technology for good purposes, so that science and technology better serve human wellbeing, and enable China's science and technology industry to contribute more to building a global community of shared future!" In the fifth installment of the "Decoding the Book of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" series, the Global Times focuses on the theme of "practicing the philosophy of technology for good purposes and polishing China's new name card in scientific and technological innovation." We continue to invite Chinese and international scholars, translators of the work, practitioners of its concepts, and overseas readers to share their insights, understandings and reflection on China's philosophy of science and technology development and international cooperation. In the fifth article of the "Translator's Voices" column, Global Times (GT) reporter Ma Ruiqian talked to Tomokazu Ueno (Ueno), a Japanese expert at the Center for Asia-Pacific of China International Communications Group. Ueno was involved in the translation and editorial work for the Japanese editions of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China. GT: China's scientific and technological development over the past decades - especially in recent years - has drawn global attention. Some say that technological innovation has become a "new calling card" of China. Do you agree with this view? You've mentioned that the application of technology in everyday life has brought greater convenience to ordinary people. What experiences from your work and life in China have led you to feel this way? Ueno: I fully agree with this view - technology has indeed become one of the symbols of China's modernization. What impresses me most is how quickly technological applications are integrated into society and made practical. For example, when I first arrived in Beijing and rented an apartment through a real estate agency, I was amazed to find that the entire rental process could be completed through a smartphone app. At places like train stations and hospitals, online systems are also widely used, so there's almost no need to wait in long lines like before. What also shocked me was that not only young people, but even most elderly people can use smartphones proficiently. Nearly all purchases can be made via mobile payment, which brings great convenience to daily life. To be honest, after getting used to this lifestyle, every time I go back to Japan to visit family, I find it a bit troublesome to carry cash, a wallet, transportation cards and various point cards again. GT: Yes, technological innovation not only facilitates the daily lives of ordinary people in China but also serves as a key driver for the high-quality development of related industries. In May, during an inspection tour in Central China's Henan Province, President Xi, emphasized the importance of "technological empowerment" and "independent innovation." You have witnessed firsthand how technology is empowering the logistics and agricultural sectors in Xinjiang. How do you view the significance of technological empowerment for the development of Chinese industries? Ueno: When I was interviewing in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, I was deeply impressed by the high level of mechanization in local agriculture. Not only are large tractors used during the harvest, but new agricultural technologies are also widely applied in planting methods, field management, product transportation, environmental protection and water conservation. Agricultural technology is widely applied across the board. I realized that in China, even agriculture - one of the most traditional industries - is actively embracing high-tech tools. This not only significantly increases farmers' incomes but also strongly boosts local development. This example shows that China clearly understands that in order to improve people's livelihoods and help them lead better lives, it is essential to revitalize local industries and promote sustainable development in different regions. The key to achieving this is technological innovation. In China, progress in high technology is closely tied to improvements in living standards. GT: The fourth volume of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China includes an article titled "Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology." In the article, President Xi points out that "science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact; they belong to all of humanity." How do you understand the "global impact" of science and technology as mentioned by President Xi? Ueno: The way I understand this is that science and technology know no borders - they can bring benefits to the entire world and help address global challenges. China has consistently emphasized contributing to the world through "Chinese wisdom" and "Chinese solutions," and it has put this philosophy into practice. Chinese technologies and their applications have already played a role in many areas around the world - including environmental protection, poverty alleviation, industrial development and improvements in people's livelihoods - achieving notable results. There is no doubt that the path China is taking - one that respects the idea that science and technology respond to the call of the times and have a global impact - is the right path for today's world. GT: At the meeting with China's sci-tech workers in 2024, President Xi said that Chinese modernization should be supported by sci-tech modernization. You will soon host the fifth season of Finding Answers in China, which also focuses on Chinese modernization. How do you understand the idea that science and technology "respond to the call of the times"? How do you think sci-tech modernization has contributed to the success of Chinese modernization? Ueno: I believe that "responding to the call of the times" means that science and technology reflect the defining features of a given era and serve as a driving force that propels modern society forward. One of my strongest impressions regarding this idea came during an interview I conducted for Finding Answers in China, when I spoke with a Japanese entrepreneur engaged in water treatment projects in China. He remarked that while some countries still only prioritize development at the expense of environmental protection - and some leaders even continue to question the reality of global warming - China, along with the global mainstream, has shifted toward emphasizing environmental. Environmental protection technology is one of the most representative fields that respond to the call of the times, and I've personally witnessed how China has significantly increased its attention and investment in this area over the past decade. This perfectly embodies the principle of "green development" emphasized in Chinese modernization - using technology to resolve the tension between development and the environment, and striving for harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. GT: In his article "Strive for Greater Strength and Self-Reliance in Science and Technology," President Xi stated, "We should participate to the full in global science and technology governance, contribute Chinese wisdom, and shape a philosophy of technology for good purposes." In your view, what is the significance of China's philosophy and practice of "technology for good purposes" for the international community, especially for the vast number of Global South countries? Ueno: Science and technology have a dual nature - depending on how they are used, they can either advance human development or cause harm. The philosophy of "technology for good purposes" is essentially a profound proposition about how a country should make good use of its scientific and technological resources within the international community. From a global perspective, developing countries with relatively weak scientific foundations have an even greater need for science and technology to achieve development. China not only makes active calls, but also takes concrete actions to share its technological achievements with these countries, aiming to bring benefits to all of humanity. This approach emphasizes not monopoly over technology and wealth, but sharing and mutual benefit. Such a philosophy helps narrow the development gap between nations and thereby promotes global stability and prosperity. GT: What are your expectations for China's further participation in global science and technology governance and its growing role in the future of technological development? In Japan, there are sometimes mixed views regarding China's pursuit of self-reliance and its technological rise. What is your opinion on this? And what message would you like to share about bilateral cooperation in the field of science and technology? Ueno: In interviews with Japanese companies operating in China, I've noticed that many of them are now not only setting up manufacturing bases in China but also relocating their research and development centers here. I believe there is already a solid foundation and a wealth of achievements in China-Japan cooperation in science and technology, with considerable potential for further growth. Looking ahead, I hope both sides can continue to expand collaboration based on their respective strengths. However, especially since the beginning of this year, there seems to be a growing headwind against cooperation. Science, by its nature, is a pursuit of rationality. It is regrettable when irrational political interference obstructs scientific collaboration. China has not compromised under such pressure and continues to uphold the principle of win-win cooperation. I can sense that China is playing an increasingly important role in guiding the world toward the right path. 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