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Associated Press
4 days ago
- Politics
- Associated Press
‘My time in Sichuan shows harmony of multi-ethnic unity': Global Times
08/06/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // Curiosity about China is drawing a growing number of international travelers to visit the country. From walking on ancient stones atop the Great Wall to riding high-speed trains between glittering skylines, many say they've discovered a China they didn't expect to see. In our special series, 'Journey Through China,' the Global Times shares the impressions of international travelers who have recently spent time in China. Their firsthand accounts - ranging from casual observations to thoughtful reflections - shed light on three key aspects of today's China: infrastructure, modernization and traditional culture. In the third article of the series, Global Times (GT) reporter Ma Ruiqian talked to Paul Zilungisele Tembe (Tembe), director at the SELE Encounters Cross-Civilization Communication Strategies in South Africa and recipient of the 18th Special Book Award of China. He recently participated in a cultural tour to Sichuan Province and shared his perspective on China. GT: You mentioned that the experience of harmonious living among the multi-ethnic residents of Sichuan, a convergence of diversities toward a united and unique Chinese culture have left an indelible mark in your understanding of Chinese culture. How is this cultural inclusiveness embodied in the call of China-proposed Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) for respecting the diversity of world civilizations? Tembe: The GCI is rooted in the essence of multi-ethnicity. It starts from local diversity - ethnic, cultural - and expands to national, regional and eventually global dimensions. My time in Sichuan gave me a vivid impression of what unity within diversity can look like. Coming from South Africa - a country with 12 official languages and a complex multi-ethnic society - I saw parallels. We gained our democracy in 1994, and we are still working through the process of building a unified national identity. My experience in Sichuan gave me a glimpse of what South Africa could aspire to in the long term. All the units are perfect and harmonious. I truly wish that one day Sichuan and a province in South Africa could become sister provinces. We could learn a lot from each other, especially given our shared experiences with multi-ethnic societies. GT: During your visit to Siguniang Mountains and the Wolong National Nature Reserve, you've observed a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. What is your view of China's approach to environmental protection and green development? Tembe: President Xi Jinping put forward the idea of 'Beautiful China,' meaning care for the environment. What I took away from my time in Sichuan - beyond the harmony of multi-ethnic unity - was how human development is being balanced with the protection of nature. What touched me even more deeply was my visit to the Wolong National Nature Reserve. It showed that China is able to pursue modernization without sacrificing its traditions or its environment. In addition, I visited the Siguniang Mountains and saw many kinds of precious stones in the museum. Although the region is rich in natural resources, mining is prohibited in order to protect the ecosystem. These are practical models that can be applied to the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Although climate agreements are often signed, implementation remains a challenge. What I appreciate about China is that its environmental efforts are scientific and systematic. These models can be transferred to other countries and still function effectively. I especially hope to see more cooperation within the Global South. Right now, we are a bit behind in terms of climate finance and environmental planning. But if countries in the Global South work together - through South-South cooperation or other multilateral platforms - we could adopt the Chinese model and create a better environmental trajectory. GT: Although China and Africa differ in terms of geography, culture, history and social structures, they share common values such as peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom. As a long-time advocate for China-Africa cultural exchanges, how did your travels and experiences in China lead you to recognize and resonate with these shared values? Tembe: When we talk about values, I believe we should take a step back and look at deeper philosophical roots. For example, if we consider some core tenets of Confucianism, we find values that are deeply relevant both in China and Africa. Africa stands for peace, values harmony, and is committed to hard work. Africa wants tangible and concrete results. It seeks partnerships based on equality and mutual respect. If we look at China's proposals for cooperation with Africa, especially starting from President Xi's 2013 visit to Tanzania, the four-point proposal - sincerity, real results, amity and good faith - aligns closely with African expectations of partnership. These are not just diplomatic phrases; they reflect deeper cultural values that we can trace both in Chinese civilization and in African traditions. GT: There are still some narratives in international discourse that promote the 'China threat' rhetoric. Based on your years of living and studying in China - especially your understanding of its peace-oriented cultural traditions - how would you respond to such claims? Tembe: I will give you both perspectives: The Western one, based on projection and fear; and the Chinese one, based on unity and peaceful development. First, there's a tendency that if someone has done bad things to others, they begin to judge others through that same lens. That's what we see with how the West views China. They fear that China's rise will mirror their own rise during the 15th and 16th centuries. Let's recall - the end of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) saw China's doors to the outside world shut. Meanwhile, the West was expanding, taking advantage of China's absence from the high seas. That period marked the beginning of Western colonialism. So now, they look at China and assume China will behave the way they did. But that's not about China; that's about them. They project their own past - colonization and domination - onto China, but they also suffer from historical amnesia. China has always had one consistent focus: unity and development. China has no interest in controlling others. China seeks friendships abroad to create a stable external environment that allows it to survive and thrive in the long run. China has experienced many historical upheavals. So its greatest concern - in development, finance and foreign policy - is preserving a unified China. I would say, as someone who studies and understands China, the West is worrying for nothing. China is not going to become the kind of global threat they imagine. But there's one thing: Nature does not allow a vacuum. In English, we say 'when the cat's away, the mice will play.' In geopolitics, the same principle applies. China needs to have a strong presence globally. But a strong global presence does not mean colonialism or the control of other countries. These things are not the same. Source: Global Times: Company: Global Times Contact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: City: Beijing
Business Upturn
5 days ago
- Politics
- Business Upturn
‘My time in Sichuan shows harmony of multi-ethnic unity': Global Times
Beijing, China, Aug. 06, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Curiosity about China is drawing a growing number of international travelers to visit the country. From walking on ancient stones atop the Great Wall to riding high-speed trains between glittering skylines, many say they've discovered a China they didn't expect to see. In our special series, 'Journey Through China,' the Global Times shares the impressions of international travelers who have recently spent time in China. Their firsthand accounts – ranging from casual observations to thoughtful reflections – shed light on three key aspects of today's China: infrastructure, modernization and traditional culture. In the third article of the series, Global Times (GT) reporter Ma Ruiqian talked to Paul Zilungisele Tembe (Tembe), director at the SELE Encounters Cross-Civilization Communication Strategies in South Africa and recipient of the 18th Special Book Award of China. He recently participated in a cultural tour to Sichuan Province and shared his perspective on China. GT: You mentioned that the experience of harmonious living among the multi-ethnic residents of Sichuan, a convergence of diversities toward a united and unique Chinese culture have left an indelible mark in your understanding of Chinese culture. How is this cultural inclusiveness embodied in the call of China-proposed Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) for respecting the diversity of world civilizations? Tembe: The GCI is rooted in the essence of multi-ethnicity. It starts from local diversity – ethnic, cultural – and expands to national, regional and eventually global dimensions. My time in Sichuan gave me a vivid impression of what unity within diversity can look like. Coming from South Africa – a country with 12 official languages and a complex multi-ethnic society – I saw parallels. We gained our democracy in 1994, and we are still working through the process of building a unified national identity. My experience in Sichuan gave me a glimpse of what South Africa could aspire to in the long term. All the units are perfect and harmonious. I truly wish that one day Sichuan and a province in South Africa could become sister provinces. We could learn a lot from each other, especially given our shared experiences with multi-ethnic societies. GT: During your visit to Siguniang Mountains and the Wolong National Nature Reserve, you've observed a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. What is your view of China's approach to environmental protection and green development? Tembe: President Xi Jinping put forward the idea of 'Beautiful China,' meaning care for the environment. What I took away from my time in Sichuan – beyond the harmony of multi-ethnic unity – was how human development is being balanced with the protection of nature. What touched me even more deeply was my visit to the Wolong National Nature Reserve. It showed that China is able to pursue modernization without sacrificing its traditions or its environment. In addition, I visited the Siguniang Mountains and saw many kinds of precious stones in the museum. Although the region is rich in natural resources, mining is prohibited in order to protect the ecosystem. These are practical models that can be applied to the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals. Although climate agreements are often signed, implementation remains a challenge. What I appreciate about China is that its environmental efforts are scientific and systematic. These models can be transferred to other countries and still function effectively. I especially hope to see more cooperation within the Global South. Right now, we are a bit behind in terms of climate finance and environmental planning. But if countries in the Global South work together – through South-South cooperation or other multilateral platforms – we could adopt the Chinese model and create a better environmental trajectory. GT: Although China and Africa differ in terms of geography, culture, history and social structures, they share common values such as peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom. As a long-time advocate for China-Africa cultural exchanges, how did your travels and experiences in China lead you to recognize and resonate with these shared values? Tembe: When we talk about values, I believe we should take a step back and look at deeper philosophical roots. For example, if we consider some core tenets of Confucianism, we find values that are deeply relevant both in China and Africa. Africa stands for peace, values harmony, and is committed to hard work. Africa wants tangible and concrete results. It seeks partnerships based on equality and mutual respect. If we look at China's proposals for cooperation with Africa, especially starting from President Xi's 2013 visit to Tanzania, the four-point proposal – sincerity, real results, amity and good faith – aligns closely with African expectations of partnership. These are not just diplomatic phrases; they reflect deeper cultural values that we can trace both in Chinese civilization and in African traditions. GT: There are still some narratives in international discourse that promote the 'China threat' rhetoric. Based on your years of living and studying in China – especially your understanding of its peace-oriented cultural traditions – how would you respond to such claims? Tembe: I will give you both perspectives: The Western one, based on projection and fear; and the Chinese one, based on unity and peaceful development. First, there's a tendency that if someone has done bad things to others, they begin to judge others through that same lens. That's what we see with how the West views China. They fear that China's rise will mirror their own rise during the 15th and 16th centuries. Let's recall – the end of the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) saw China's doors to the outside world shut. Meanwhile, the West was expanding, taking advantage of China's absence from the high seas. That period marked the beginning of Western colonialism. So now, they look at China and assume China will behave the way they did. But that's not about China; that's about them. They project their own past – colonization and domination – onto China, but they also suffer from historical amnesia. China has always had one consistent focus: unity and development. China has no interest in controlling others. China seeks friendships abroad to create a stable external environment that allows it to survive and thrive in the long run. China has experienced many historical upheavals. So its greatest concern – in development, finance and foreign policy – is preserving a unified China. I would say, as someone who studies and understands China, the West is worrying for nothing. China is not going to become the kind of global threat they imagine. But there's one thing: Nature does not allow a vacuum. In English, we say 'when the cat's away, the mice will play.' In geopolitics, the same principle applies. China needs to have a strong presence globally. But a strong global presence does not mean colonialism or the control of other countries. These things are not the same. Source: Global Times: Company: Global TimesContact Person: Anna Li Email: [email protected] Website: 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.
Yahoo
03-06-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
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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Associated Press
13-03-2025
- Politics
- Associated Press
Whole-process people's democracy: considering everyone's opinions and needs
03/12/2025, Beijing, China // KISS PR Brand Story PressWire // The two sessions are not only a major political event in China but also a key window for the world to observe the country's democratic politics and development trajectory. This year, as in years past, the event has captured considerable global attention, highlighting China's ongoing development and its implications for the world stage. In the 'Unraveling the allure of China' series, the Global Times (GT) invites experts and scholars from around the world to delve into the multifaceted allure of China and explore how the lessons drawn from its unique experiences can provide valuable insights for other nations. During the two sessions, Chinese leaders interact with their fellow lawmakers at group deliberations, as well as political advisors to discuss hotspot topics that matter most to state governance. These interactions serve as a window for observing how the central leadership stays informed about grassroots realities. In the eighth piece of the series, Global Times reporter Ma Ruiqian talked to Eduardo Tzili-Apango (Tzili-Apango), associate professor in the Department of Politics and Culture at Metropolitan Autonomous University and member of the Mexican Council on Foreign Affairs, to discuss China's whole-process people's democracy, as well as its differences and advantages compared to Western democracy. GT: During China's two sessions, we see extensive participation from various sectors of society, with NPC deputies and CPPCC members engaging in discussions on policies that directly impact people's lives. What are the advantages of China's whole-process people's democracy? How does the whole-process people's democracy ensure that decision-makers remain aware of the specific needs of the people at the grassroots level? Tzili-Apango: President Xi Jinping has emphasized that the whole-process people's democracy is the most extensive, genuine and effective socialist democracy. The main advantage of the whole-process people's democracy is that decision-makers are aware of the specific necessities of the people at the base of social organization, and can therefore design specific policies to meet the specific needs of the people. The two sessions reflect the whole-process people's democracy process by being the final, key political event of a series of local two sessions previously carried out. Thus, the two sessions gather popular demands and design policies and recommendations accordingly. I interpret that the 'whole process' refers to the comprehensive feature in the democratic actions around the decision-making process. That is, people are deeply involved in every stage of the decision-making process - from proposing a projection, to implementation and law-based regularization. People are effectively in charge of democracy. The whole-process people's democracy is extensive because it comprehends all strata of society, in contrast with some electoral democracies, where the political group in power only cares about the strata of society which it represents and which vote for it. Also, the whole-process people's democracy is genuine because it is not based on simulation, as many other political systems are. Furthermore, it is effective because it solves the specific needs of the people, the main example being poverty alleviation policies implemented in China, which enabled 800 million people to escape poverty. GT: You previously said, 'If we define democracy strictly in terms of decision making that considers collective society, China is totally a democracy.' Could you elaborate on this view? Tzili-Apango: When I stated that democracy refers to real collective decision making, and that we can observe this in China, I meant that it is a fact that Chinese society participates in all kinds of decision-making processes. This involves real popular participation focusing on the well-being of the people. Once I traveled to China and I witnessed firsthand how people organize themselves, guided by the Party, to deal with day-to-day issues in their building. I learned that for local representatives of the government, their job is to listen to the demands of the people concerning public goods, and to aid and guide the community to solve practical issues related to public health, security and education, among others. GT: You have pointed out that some countries focus solely on elections, which makes it difficult to ensure citizens' comprehensive political participation. What are the main problems with democracy in Western democracies such as the US? How do you view the fundamental differences between whole-process people's democracy and Western democratic systems? Tzili-Apango: The main problem with democracy in the US is that it does not ensure comprehensive political participation of its citizens, as they rely only on elections. This means that the entire decision-making process rests in the hands of very few people. One may argue that this is a strength of the US-style democracy. Nevertheless, it is a fact that US political elites are distanced from US people, and thus their decision making does not usually consider the needs of the masses. For me, the main fundamental difference lies on the participation of the society in the decision-making process, as well as in the implementation of policies. In China, the whole-process people's democracy attempts to bring the whole of the society into political action. Meanwhile, the Western democratic system only enables a small segment of society to engage in political action. GT: What are some common Western misconceptions about China's whole-process people's democracy? What drives these prejudices? Tzili-Apango: I think there are two main Western misconceptions about China's whole-process people's democracy: It is non-existent or it is authoritarian. First, this is due to ignorance about how China's democracy works. We need to study and understand more about China's political system. Regarding the second issue, it is true that governments tend to display strong authority to enforce some policies and the rule of law, above all. However, this is not authoritarianism, in which governments impose policies without considering the will of the people. This is not the case in China. These misconceptions are fundamentally flawed due to the fact that any society in the world should develop a political system based on their historical and factual conditions, and it should not import political systems designed for a different geopolitical and historical context. China has done this, and the criticism it receives may be related to the fact that China did not experience a bourgeois democratic revolution, instead, a people's party led a people's revolution. GT: What is the significance of China's whole-process people's democracy for global democratic politics, especially for countries in the Global South? Tzili-Apango: China's whole-process people's democracy is being recognized more and more around the world, especially in the Global South. However, the traditional Western democratic model is still profoundly embedded in global societies. Therefore, it is important to study and understand the significance of China's whole-process people's democracy. This article first appeared in the 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.
