Tag: Xi

President XI Jinping’s Russia Trip is Crucial for Global Stability

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By Moshi Israel

On Monday, the 20th of this month the Leader of China President Xi Jinping landed in Moscow on his first trip out of China since his re-election for a third term as President. Choosing Moscow as his first foreign trip re-affirms the close friendship between Russia and Beijing. President Xi’s long-awaited visit to Moscow inspired a lot of background noise around major capitals of the world. A close partnership between Moscow and Beijing is not in the geopolitical interests of most western countries. However, many other regions of the world that are eager for a new era of global politics in which multi-polarity is the norm, anticipated and hoped for the best outcomes from the meeting.

China, with President Xi at the helm, has taken up the mantle of peacemaker. After successfully brokering a peace deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, China is increasingly being seen as a credible global power capable of prioritizing cooperation over confrontation. This comes as no surprise since the CPC has always championed win-win partnerships and diplomacy around the world. The evidence of this is embedded within China’s Belt and Road Initiatives (BRI), and Global Security Initiative (GSI) concept paper that encourages the Chinese tradition of peace above everything else.

China’s peace plan for Ukraine closely follows the core concepts and principles of its GSI. These concepts include but are not limited to, respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, commitment to taking the legitimate security concerns of countries seriously, and abiding by the purposes and principles of the UN charter. These principles are crucial in maintaining global stability. Therefore, President Xi’s visit to Moscow can be seen as an extension of these principles and China’s role as a peace broker. China has proposed to Moscow a twelve-point peace plan that seeks to end hostilities in Ukraine. President Putin has welcomed China’s efforts to solve the crisis in Ukraine and proclaimed that Russia is ready for peace when Ukraine and its western backers are. Most of the world cannot wait for this conflict to be over with and welcomes common sense solutions to the conflict.

Washington for so long has proclaimed that the decision to negotiate for peace and end the war is for Ukraine to make. However, it did not come as a surprise when the White House through its national security spokesperson John Kirby rejected any idea of a cease-fire. The white house anticipated that China might seek to broker a cease-fire in Ukraine and rejected it two weeks ahead of Xi’s visit to Moscow on grounds that it would allow Russia to consolidate its gains in the Donbas. The International Criminal Court (ICC) even went further and indicted President Putin for war crimes in Ukraine ahead of President Xi’s visit. This move by the court has been interpreted by many as largely symbolic and an attempt to murky the waters and complicate Xi’s visit to Moscow.

China has a very large presence around the world, economically, diplomatically, and technologically and has used this power to support peace. This should be applauded by all responsible citizens of the world. World leaders should oppose any attempt to escalate conflicts by nefarious actors on the global stage. President Xi has insisted that the conflict in Ukraine should end at the negotiating table and that the concerns of the conflicting parties be addressed.

At a time when the world is under serious economic and political strain, China is standing up to be counted as the global power that has a practical plan to lead the world into a new era. China’s neutrality on the Ukrainian conflict despite deep ties with Moscow, and its goal of peace are testament to the country’s genuine desire for a functional multi-polar and anti-war world. The global south, itself a victim of proxy wars should support China’s efforts in the framework of the United Nations to promote peace in Ukraine and around the world. The years of lacking a coherent and independent foreign policy in the global south should be forgotten and dumped in the dustbin of history. China under the CPC has managed to uplift itself from a century of humiliation to a global power worth taking seriously. The same can be replicated in the global south and particularly here in Africa.

The writer is a Senior Research Fellow with DWC

Xi Jinping’s Third Five-Year Term is Yet Off the Mark, But What’s in For Africa & Global South

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By Alan Collins Mpewo.

Earlier this month on 10th March 2023, Xi Jinping who is the Secretary General of Chinese Communist Party (CPC) was formally reappointed as the president of the World’s second largest economy, China for a third five-year term. This was after the National People’s Congress (NPC), unanimously endorsed Mr. Xi, 69, with all of its 2,952 present members casting votes in favour of his reappointment.

While president Xi’s re-election received significant number of positive comments and congratulatory messages from the globe, some controversial opinions especially from some western pundits in some western capitals shamelessly described Xi’s reappointment as a bad precedent with narrow views that he should have stepped down after two terms which they described as China’s political “tradition.” While they emphasized this weak argument, non-pointed at the fact that President Xi was voted for another term due to his good record of performance and that his re-election reflected the will of majority of Chinese people. Indeed, in the entire process of Xi’s third term re-election, there was zero complaint such as bribing voters, no voter suppression claims or vote rigging. This way, we can conclude and argue that in that people – Chinese People were at the center of President Xi’s re-election and arguably, views and opinions of others are inconsequential and to say the least undemocratic with zero resemblance of the much-desired whole process democracy which China cherishes.

The negative commentaries on Xi’s third term re-election came in a wake of global political events that have many critics posing questions that can barely solved. Well, the electoral forums of China had their say, and hopefully, in the next years, a lot will come to light and life, regarding the international relations question. The Global South still encounters its various challenges, which are generally common for each country there’s. Challenges of infrastructure, economic elevation, security, education, medical, energy, human rights, and climate change lead the charts. China has for decades now been issuing a supportive hand but there can only much done within a short time.

For sustainability, progressiveness has to be paced on a rhythm of care not to antagonize what’s already existent, but also balancing with what’s expected to hatch in a long run. In this pursuit, some forces, both internal and external keep shaping the progression of the relations between China and the global south. Much can’t be said about these forces being supportive, but rather attempts to fail the progression. Be that as it may, the two wings have remained resolute in achieving that which they find noble and beneficial to their citizens.

Xi Jinping’s third term has also arrived at the time when the CPC had announced a laid plan on which it would base to interact with the wider world through its policy of globalization and openness. The CPC has also declared a considerable number of goals it seeks to achieve with the global south in the next decades, prior to the announcement of the Chinese Parliament backing Xi Jinping for a third term. What also remains a reality is the principle of mutual respect that China maintains with its interactions with the global south. Energy access remains a priority and that has been intimidated in the various addresses by Xi Jinping.

For countries especially in the Central and Eastern Africa, this will remain a top priority. The statistics on energy access have become better in recent times, but equally, more is yet to be done to keep filling the void on those that have hardships in access of the same. For West Africa, while it has many partners that are members of FOCAC, their challenges don’t seem different, but for the high hand of inter-meddling from the Western powers. Insecurity has been maintained as a worrying factor on that end. The China rolled out the Global Security Initiative (GSI) proposal which it’s seeking out the UN member states to adopt. With the current trends in the Middle East where China has been key in forging negotiations for peace among some countries that have battled with stability thus far, it’s safe to state that the initiative will broaden to West Africa.

Infrastructure is one of the strongest drivers of development in any country. It connects possibly all units of the economy, and the vice versa is equally true. This informed China and the global south partner states from the very beginning, on the need to relay the infrastructure to human sustainability standards. It’s of no wonder then, that the Belt and Road programme was rolled out. Since other means of transport such as air transportation would seem a long shot for most countries in the global south, road transportation remains the most viable in the circumstances. Infrastructure projects in most nations are still ongoing, with more yet to commence.

With the extension of technological advancements to most corners of the world, industrialization will continue being realized. This will keep healing the ail of unemployment for the fast-growing population in the global south. The win-win mentality is all that can be deduced from this aspect. That notwithstanding, the global south should also brace for complex times of haggling from some external forces, in trying to stop the diplomatic expansion of China.

With this modest assessment relayed above, no Africa countries’ developing partner has been so honest and sincere to Africa than China under president Xi Jinping. Hence, there’s just as much to feel grateful for by the Global South especially in Africa in as far as Xi Jinping’s term renewal is concerned, because unlike the speculation, China has kept their word in regard to China’s engagement with African countries and made FOCAC a priority and wouldn’t seem to be slowing down on achieving the agreed goals amongst the partners.

As Dambisa Moyo, a renowned Economist and Analysis of macroeconomics and global affairs observed in her book EDGE OF CHAOS: Why Democracy Is Failing to Deliver Economic Growth — and How to Fix It one of the major challenges identified in failing meaning full sustainable development and democracy is not leaders staying in power for long time. It is what Moyo called “short-termism” which she ably explains contributes to falling trust in government with rising polarization and gridlock which she argues is due to politicians’ eagerness to win elections which leaves them making decisions to maximize voter support rather than those that would do the most for long-term growth and hence, slowing development action to a crawl. With this, taking a third term from expert’s view is not a crime but rather a necessity for continuity which is key for sustainable development.

Alan Collins Mpewo, Senior Research Fellow, Development Watch Centre.

China’s Path to Modernization and its Implications for Uganda and Global South

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By Moshi Israel
In a 2021 speech marking the CPCs centenary, President Xi Jinping declared;
“Through the continued efforts of the whole Party and the entire nation, we have realised the
First Centenary Goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. This means that
we have brought about a historic resolution to the problem of absolute poverty in China, and we
are now marching in confident strides towards the Second Centenary Goal, building China into a
great modern socialist country in all respects.”

While addressing media and Ugandan Think Tanks during a Symposium on the Implications of
the 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) themed by “Forge Ahead on
the New Journey and Work Together for A New Era,” at Chinese Embassy in Uganda, Chinese
Ambassador to Uganda, Zhang Lizhong stressed that China’s development path will see China
match towards Beijing dream of realizing the Second Centenary Goal and see China advancing
into a more modern socialist country. Stressing that the recently concluded CPC National
Congress “established the core position of General Secretary Xi Jinping in the Central
Committee and the whole Party, laying a solid political foundation for striving for the great
success of socialism with Chinese characteristics for a new era,” Ambassador Lizhong expressed
confidence China is on right track with its development path.

China’s path to modernisation is one rooted in centuries of exploration. Like all journeys, it is
not a straight forward path but a long winding curve, a learning curve. China’s path to
modernization holds key implications for developing countries around the world, and in this
context, Uganda and arguably, many countries in the global south.To understand the path to
modernization from a Chinese perspective, going back in time is a necessary step.

During the Qing dynasty (1644-1912), China was a weak Imperial state with rampant civic
corrupt infrastructure. The weak Qing empire was reduced to a semi-colonial, semi-feudal
society following the opium war of 1840s. China had to endure what came to be known as a
century of humiliation as foreign powers ran amok and exploited the Chinese people. The
calamities befalling China in this era spurred many people to seek new ways to strengthen and
unite a weak China and change their trajectory through development and modernization. The
building blocks for a strong independent China started forming in the minds of Chinese people
during this tumultuous period.

Fast forward to the 20th century which saw the rise of China’s Communist Party (CCP). China
underwent a communist revolution in 1949 that ushered in the birth of the People’s Republic of
China (PRC) which subsequently came with a fresh and more determined commitment to
modernization. Under the CCP, China has set a clear path to modernization and has made
significant strides. In a report delivered by CPC’s Secretary General who is also Chinese
President Xi Jinping on the opening ceremony of the 20 th CPC National Congress, he reiterated
the central purpose of the CPC stressing that; “from this day forward, the central task of the CPC
will be to lead the Chinese people of all ethnic groups in a concerted effort to realize the Second
Centenary Goal of building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects and to advance the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through a Chinese path to modernisation.”

The Chinese model of modernisation is similar in some respects to other processes of modernisation. However, it is unique in the fact that China pursues modernisation with Chinese characteristics. This is important to note for a country like Uganda because it emphasises the idea of considering national realities while addressing national challenges. China’s model presents an alternative path different from the western world. For many decades, developing countries have applied western generated solutions to their economic, social and political
problems and have acquired little to no success. Many times, these solutions such as the Structural Adjustment Programs (SAPs) recommended by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank have outrightly failed. As president Xi, put it, China’s model offers a new direction of modernisation.

China’s path to modernisation is especially remarkable given the fact that it had to lift billions of its citizens out of absolute poverty. This has had a broad and worldwide impact and has greatly contributed to the cause of human progress.

Furthermore, China’s modernisation model it involves material and cultural-ethical advancement and harmony between humanity and nature. The planet is currently facing an existential climate crisis and China wants to lead the way in combating the challenge. China’s commitment to environmental action is not mere words. The country is actively involved in Global Environmental Governance and International Cooperation. China has promised to peak its carbon emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

Within China, the CPC seeks to adopt new initiatives as indicated by Mr. Han Wenxiu (Official with the CCP Central Committee for Financial and Economic Affairs) to narrow the gap between different regions, rural and urban areas and different income groups. On the world stage, China seeks peaceful development. It supports a world order based on addressing the world’s crises. To China, a multipolar world based on mutual respect and cooperation is an ideal one. The message is simple, a strong China means a better world.

At some point before the founding of the PRC, China tried to achieve modernisation through
generating material wealth, carrying out institutional reform and trying to copy western
development models without success. Instead of running around in circles, the CPC led China on
a new path. During the First Session of the Third National People’s Congress, from 21 December
1964 to 4 January 1965, then Premier Zhou Enlai emphasized the importance of turning China
into a strong socialist country through the modernization of agriculture, industry, national
defense, and science and technology. It wasn’t until 1978, that China paved the way for its
reform and opening up through a landmark event of the Third Plenary Session of the 11 th CCP
Central Committee.

The CCP used a three- step development strategy for China’s modernization. The first step was
to double the 1980 GNP and ensure the people had enough food and clothing. That objective had
been attained by the late 1980s. The second step was to quadruple the 1980 GNP by the end of
the 20th century. This was achieved in 1995, ahead of time. The third step, is to increase the per capita GNP to the level of medium-developed countries by the mid-21 st century. At which point,
the people will be well off and modernisation achieved.

To a developing country like Uganda, China’s path to modernisation serves as a blueprint.
Uganda has the opportunity to learn from both the west and China and then choose the most
suitable path to realizing her own modernization with Ugandan characteristics. The drive to
achieve this goal must be people centered with the aim of achieving prosperity for all. China’s
path shows that there is hope and much has to be done. These words of president Xi, at the end
of this year’s report to the 20 th National congress of the CPC should be the unanimous battle cry
of every leader in the developing world and particularly ruling political parties’ world-over; “Let
us keep in mind that empty talk will do nothing for our country; only solid work will make it
flourish. Let us maintain firm confidence, unite as one, and forge ahead with resolve. And let us
strive in unity to build a modern socialist country in all respects and advance national
rejuvenation on all fronts.”

Moshi Israel is a research fellow at the Development Watch Centre.

People at The Centre of Xi Jinping’s CPC’s National Congress Report

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By Allawi Ssemanda.

On Sunday October 16th, Chinese president Xi Jinping opened the highly anticipated 20th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC) which is ongoing at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. In his 105 minutes speech, President Xi who doubles as CPC party Secretary General put Chinese people at the centre of his speech and broadly his governance.

In his report entitled “Hold High the Great Banner of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics and Strive in Unity to Build a Modern Socialist Country in All Respects,” President Xi explained, “this country is its people. The people are the Country. As the Communist Party of China has led the people in fighting to establish and develop the People’s Republic, it has really been fighting for the people’s support and bringing benefits to the people is the fundamental principle of governance,” President Xi emphasised.

The central point here is that, President Xi clearly knows that to lead well his country and help it move to what CPC sees as the ideal step, or to successfully start and walk CPC’s dream of a “New Journey of the New Era” and accelerate the creation of a new development pattern while pursuing high-quality development which he mentioned, ultimately, he needs the support and cooperation of people and thus, he promised that Chinese government would do all it takes to serve interests of the citizens. “We must strive to realize, safeguard, and advance the fundamental interests of all our people. To this end, we must do everything within our capacity to resolve the most practical problems that are of the greatest and most direct concern to the people. We will continue to improve the system of income distribution, implement the employment-first strategy, improve the social security system, and advance the Healthy China Initiative,” Xi stressed.

Further, President Xi told the delegates that CPC is committed to promoting and supporting advancement of “Whole-Process People’s Democracy” and ensuring that the people run the country. “We will continue to strengthen the institutions through which the people run the country, fully develop consultative democracy, actively develop democracy at the primary level, and consolidate and develop the broadest possible patriotic united front,” Xi emphasised.

From historical perspective, China’s concept of whole-process people’s democracy is not new. It is actually a major proposition put forward by CPC’s General Secretary Xi Jinping put forward based on the development of democracy in China and it is included in the communique of the 19th Central Committee of the CPC arising from its sixth plenary session held from 8th to 11th, November 2021.

While China has at times been criticised especially by the west claiming that Beijing is not a democracy, China has always argued that Democracy is not an exclusive patent of Western countries and therefore cannot and should not be defined and dictated by Western countries. Xu Lin, the deputy director of the publicity of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of State Council Information Office argues that after reviewing the gains and losses of political development at home and abroad, CPC keenly realised that China’s political civilisation and political system must be deeply rooted in China’s society and that it cannot work for China to copy the political systems of other countries. Xu Lin maintain that democracy is, “at its core, all about the people running the country.” If critically analysed, this may explain why in his speech Xi maintained that people must be at centre-stage of running affairs of their country.

Another key observation from President Xi’s report to CPC’s ongoing national conference is his diction. In language and communication, choice of words used by speaker(s) matter. And in International Relations, words of a leader matter. In his close to two hours address, at no time did president Xi use the word “I”.  His speech was largely characterised by “we” signalling that despite being the President and party Secretary General, Xi is not running a one man’s show. Put differently, it means as a party in government, when it comes to making decisions and governance, CPC is inclusive and arguably follows democratic principles of consulting, listening and working with majority than one individual. Going by words of Peter Drucker; Xi is an effective leader and a team player: “The leaders who work most effectively, never say “I.” And that’s not because they have trained themselves not to say “I.” They don’t think “I.” They think “we”; they think “team,” and their challenge is to make their team deliver.

On the international scene, president Xi indicated China’s readiness in promoting Global Peace and Development and Building a Human Community with a Shared Future. At a time when the world is faced challenges such as Ukraine crisis, sky rocketing energy prices and experts predicting poor economic recovery this year and the coming year, what the world needs to listen too are commitments from global leaders committing to support and protect peace and global development, consultation, and win-win cooperation; Leaders who are against group politics and block confrontation, conflict, coercion and zero-sum games.  Put differently, the world needs to hear leaders who speak and promote dialogue and diplomacy not block formation and or cold war mentality. On this, arguably, President Xi directly spoke wishes of peace and development lovers which signals statesmanship.

While he spoke for peace and dialogue in addressing issues, President Xi also exhibited a picture of a leader who is ready to guard and protect interests of his country vowing to uphold and improve the Policy of One Country, two systems and promoting national reunification.

The biggest applause throughout his speech came when he stated: “The wheels of history are rolling on toward China’s reunification and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Complete reunification of our country must be realised, and it can, without doubt, be realised.”  Citing

1971 United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and other historical facts, China maintains that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and always  wants to unite it with the mainland. Chinese people cast this as a sacred mission which should be completed. “We will continue to strive for peaceful reunification with the greatest sincerity and the utmost effort, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force, and we reserve the option of taking all measures necessary,” Xi declared. All this shows that China is willing to do anything it takes to complete its unification be peaceful or otherwise.

Conclusively, President Xi’s speech largely focused on people, development, peace, democracy and environment as China seeks to cooperate and work with the world to build a Human Community with a Shared Future and common prosperity.

Allawi Ssemanda,PhD is a Senior Research Fellow at Development Watch Centre.

 

Uganda’s PDM should tap into Forum on China-Africa Cooperation’s Action Plan 2022-2024

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By Allawi Ssemanda

Last month, the government of Uganda signed the Agreement of Economic and Technical Cooperation on Grant Aid (AETCGA) with the government of Popole’s Republic of China. The signed agreement is part of the two countries’ efforts in implementing development projects in Uganda under Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) 8th ministerial conference that highlighted nine programs to focus on. This agreement signed by finance minister, Matia Kasaija and Ambassador Zhang Lizhong on behalf of Uganda and China respectively will see China disbursing USD 20 million to support Uganda’s social and livelihoods projects.

If critically analysed, one can argue that less than six months after Darkar declaration in which 53 African countries and China under FOCAC identified nine areas to be fund and supported by China over next two years, it is becoming clear that Uganda and other African countries under FOCAC can benefit from China-Africa cooperation where under a win-win cooperation, African countries can identify areas that need support. Indeed, while signing AETCGA, Uganda’s finance minister, Matia Kasaija observed that such support from China contributes to Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation.

Broadly, the nine areas identified by African countries to be supported by China for the period 2022-2024 will focus on: peace and security, capacity building, people-to-people relations, poverty reduction and promotion of trade and investments in African countries. The others are supporting medical and health programs, supporting agricultural programs, green development, and digital innovation. All these areas are vital for sustained the socio-economic development of Uganda, and Africa in general.

In Uganda’s context, if implemented, identified areas will help the country realise objectives and goals of Parish Development Model whose end gaol is reducing poverty. Aware that African countries are still grappling with extreme poverty which China eradicated early last year, through FOCAC arrangement, Ugandan policy makers and Africa’s in general can engage China to support identified areas such as; capacity building, poverty reduction, promotion of trade and investments, people-to-people relations, digital innovation, supporting of medical and health programs as a sure way of reducing eradicating extreme poverty on the continent. China in this case can offer good lessons sharing with African governments on how they managed to eradicate poverty.

Despite hardships developing countries face, China was able to eradicated extreme poverty among her huge population of 1.4 billion people, and has consequently successfully built a moderately prosperous society. As I write this, Beijing has already set another ambitious target of building a country of high-quality development also known as “common prosperity”.

However, as we think to borrow ideas of development from China, developing countries must as well seriously look at the role of leadership in development of societies/countries. Arguably, we must note that for any country to develop – at least using China’s example, leadership plays a key role in development. Also, for any country to achieve meaningful development, people must be at the centre of such development efforts. This helps in ensuring inclusive development which is key in ensuring prosperity.

For example, in his paper: “To Firmly Drive Common Prosperity”, President Xi explains that while China succeeded in ending extreme poverty, they still face a tough challenge of ensuring equal development between urban and rural people and reducing the gap between rich and the poor stressing that this impedes common prosperity. This to happen, leaders must help citizens create their realistic desired vision and then support them to achieve stated goals.

Therefore, as African countries embark on implementing projects identified in nine areas under FOCAC action plan for 2022-2024, policy makers and leaders must be mindful and ensure that all projects undertaken have reflect interests of citizens and inclusive development. African governments must use the opportunity of China’s willingness to discuss which project needs to be funded and select funds that directly touch livelihood of people.

The author is Executive Director of Development Watch Centre; a foreign policy think tank.

Why President Xi’s six-point Global Development Initiative to world leaders will bring global peace

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By Allawi Ssemanda.

Noting that the world was faced with unprecedented historic challenges partly occasioned by Covid-19 pandemic, in order the world to make a comeback, Chinese president Xi Jinping proposed to the Global leaders attending United Nations General Assembly’s 76th session what he described as Global Development Initiative listing six key areas.

Firstly, president Xi suggested that the world stay committed to development as a priority by ensuring unhindered global development partnership which are equal and balanced, policy coordination and forge greater synergy among multilateral development cooperation processes. It can be argued that this is a timely call for if done, it will help the world realise United Nations agenda 2030 of ensuring sustainable development for all.

Secondly, president Xi proposed the world stay committed and support a people-centered approach. He reasoned that such approach will help to safeguard and improve people’s livelihoods and protect and promote human rights. He explained that this can be achieved through development by ensuring that developments undertaken by governments are meant for the people and by the people, and that its fruits are shared among the people or citizens. This approach if embraced will help reduce income inequality levels and hence, create a society of shared prosperity and hence, the world including developed countries will have a population with “a greater sense of happiness, benefit and security, and achieve well-rounded development” for humanity.

Thirdly, President Xi proposed the world stay committed to benefits for all, stressing that it is humane and indeed in a spirit of togetherness and shared prosperity that world leaders ensure they care about the needs of developing countries. This can be achieved through interventions such as debt suspension and extension of development aid especially to countries facing development challenges. Such a call coming at a time when countries economic curves are slowing down due to what IMF called the world’s greatest lockdown, will help world’s developing economies to re-emerge.

The Chinese leader further proposed that world leaders remain committed to innovation-driven and development. This is a timely call because, if the world seizes opportunities created by latest technological advancement and industrial revolution, this in the long run will boost productivity and its associated spill overs. Already, in developing countries there are new innovations such as production of medical supplies that were a “reserve” of advanced countries before Covid-19 pandemic. Supporting such innovations will not only help in creating livelihood opportunities but also help to boost people’s incomes.

President Xi further proposed to world leaders to remain committed and ensure there is harmony between man and nature. He reasoned that this way, the world would ensure improved global environmental governance while actively responding the challenge of climate change. He announced to increase support Beijing has been giving to developing countries in developing green and low-cardon energy and that “China will not build new coal-fired power projects abroad.” Arguably, this proposal is not just about today but also generations to come. Today, the world is grappling with climate change related challenges and any positive idea meant to reverse these challenges must be embraced.

In August this year, a report compiled by 234 experts from 66 countries under the Geneva-based Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released a report showing how the world is under threat due to climate change; “The scale of recent changes across the climate system as a whole and the present state of many aspects of the climate system are unprecedented over many centuries to many thousands of years,” and warned that as a result of climate change, earth’s average surface temperatures are rising and are projected it to reach  1.5C (2.7F) which is about 1.6C (2.9F) much above pre-industrial levels of around 2030 in all five of the greenhouse gas emissions scenarios.This projection is almost 10 years earlier than what IPCC predicted less than three years ago.  Therefore, a proposal world leader to address challenges caused by climate change is a step forward and should be lauded.

The above assertions are based on the fact that climate change is occasioned by unfriendly human activities to environment does not only cause global warming but is also a threat likely to cause human extinction and suffering of mankind. In his book entitled Spike: The Virus Vs The People – The Inside Story Sir, Professor Jerremy Farrar a renowned scientist argues that unregulated human activities can also contribute to outbreak of pandemics like Covid-19. He contends that the most likely cause of future outbreaks is human activities, such as wildlife trade, deforestation, mining and other forms of land clearance explaining that as wildlife and vegetation are destroyed, several species of viruses and the bacteria they host are set loose to seek new hosts; and the only available options are domestic livestock and humans. With such knowledge at hand, it can be argued that president Xi’s proposed areas that require global leaders’ response are spot-on!

The proposal calling upon world leaders to stay committed to results-oriented actions by offering more support to developing countries in areas of poverty alleviation, food security, and industrialization will help developing countries to stand again from negative effects of Covid-19 pandemic and in the long run support economic development in developing countries. World Bank and International Monetary Fund experts have on several occasions highlighted the need for developed countries to support developing countries to emerge from economic meltdown caused by Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, making a call in that direction and pledging “additional three billion U.S dollars of international assistance in the next three years to support developing countries in responding to COVID-19 and promoting economic and social recovery” by China is a welcome development.

President Xi’s speech further emphasized that China is interested in what can be described as an Era of rentless diplomacy, and that seeking multilateral global engagement is way to go. From the speech, it is clear that Beijing regarded diplomacy as regarded dialogue as the most useful form of diplomacy stressing that; “Chinese people have always celebrated and striven to pursue the vision of peace, amity and harmony. China has never and will never invade or bully others, or seek hegemony. China is always a builder of world peace, contributor to global development, defender of the international order and provider of public goods.” Such commitment at a time when the world is grappled with challenges of prolonged wars is a positive step that must be emulated and welcomed.

As Xi observed, “differences and problems among countries, hardly avoidable, need to be handled through dialogue and cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual respect. One country’s success does not have to mean another country’s failure, and the world is big enough to accommodate common development and progress of all countries.” Arguably, this is the reason diplomacy and international relations exist and the very reason of current global order of mutual respect irrespective of the country’s size or strength which is a pillar of United Nations Charter.

 

 

Strengthening Cooperation Among Political Parties to Jointly Pursue the People’s Wellbeing

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Keynote Address by H.E. Xi Jinping General Secretary of the Central Committee of

The Communist Party of China And President of the People’s Republic of China

At the CPC and World Political Parties Summit Beijing, 6 July 2021.

Your Excellencies leaders of political parties,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

It gives me great pleasure to join you, leaders of more than 500 political parties, political and other organisations from over 160 countries as well as the ten thousand and more representatives of political parties and various circles, at this cloud event to discuss the important question of “working for the people’s wellbeing and the responsibility of political parties”, just as the Communist Party of China (CPC) reaches its one hundredth anniversary. Over the past weeks, more than 600 political parties, political and other organisations from over 170 countries have sent 1500-plus congratulatory messages and letters on the CPC’s centenary conveying their goodwill and best wishes. I wish to take this opportunity to express to all of you, on behalf of the Communist Party of China, our heartfelt thanks!

A few days ago, we celebrated the CPC’s centenary with a grand gathering. Over the past hundred years, the CPC has united and led the Chinese people in working ceaselessly towards the tremendous transformation of the Chinese nation from standing up and growing prosperous to becoming strong. Over the past hundred years, the CPC has persisted in closely associating the future of the Chinese people with that of other peoples of the world and steered the course of China’s development amid the general trend of the world and the currents of the times to promote common development and prosperity of all countries.

The historic achievements the CPC and the Chinese people have made would not have been possible without the generous support of world peoples.

Here, on behalf of the CPC and the Chinese people, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to political parties, peoples and friends of all countries who have cared about, supported and helped the CPC and the cause of revolution, development and reform in China.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

The world today is undergoing profound transformation unseen in a century, amid which the trend of multi-polarity and economic globalisation is experiencing a sea change, and countries are becoming increasingly intertwined, interdependent and interconnected. To cope with COVID-19, restart the economy, and safeguard world stability, the international community has made strenuous efforts. Political parties in various countries have also exhibited a strong sense of responsibility by making active explorations. Meanwhile, in some places, wars and conflicts are still raging, famine and diseases remain prevalent, and estrangement and confrontation grow even deeper. The call for a better life from people of all countries is becoming all the more loud and clear.

Today, human society has once again found itself at a historic crossroads. It is about hostile confrontation or mutual respect, seclusiveness and decoupling or openness and cooperation, zero-sum game or win-win results. The choice is in our hands and the responsibility falls on our shoulders.

The human race is an integral community and the planet Earth its homeland. In the face of common challenges, no person or country can remain insulated. The only way out is to work together in harmony with one accord. Political parties, as an important force behind human progress, need to set the right course forward and shoulder their historic responsibility to ensure the people’s wellbeing and pursue human progress. In my view, political parties need to work even harder on the following:

First, we need to shoulder the responsibility to steer the course by seizing and shaping the shared future for mankind. People aspire to affluence and contentment. They yearn for fairness and justice. Great times call for grand architecture, and grand architecture calls for great vision. Viewed from the perspective of “my own country first”, the world is a cramped and crowded place perpetuated in fierce competition. Viewed from the perspective of “a global community with a shared future”, the world is a vast and broad place full of cooperation opportunities. We need to heed the voices of the people, follow the trend of the times and strengthen coordination and cooperation. By doing so, the interests of the people of one country will be kept in line with those of all others and humanity will move forward towards a shared future.

Second, we need to shoulder the responsibility to build consensus by upholding and promoting the common values of humanity. Despite differences among countries in history, culture, institution and level of development, their peoples do subscribe to the common values of humanity for peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom. With a strong sense of responsibility for the future of all mankind, we need to champion the common values of humanity, foster broad-minded tolerance toward the understanding of values by different civilisations, and respect the explorations of different peoples to turn values into reality. By doing so, the common values of humanity will be translated into the practice of individual countries to serve the interests of their own people in a concrete and realistic way.

Third, we need to shoulder the responsibility to promote development by bringing greater benefits to all peoples in a fairer manner. Development holds the key to the people’s wellbeing. On the road to the wellbeing of all mankind, no country or nation should be left behind. All countries and nations are equally entitled to development opportunities and rights to development. We need to face squarely up to major problems such as wealth gap and development divide, with particular attention and care given to underdeveloped countries and regions, and impoverished people so that hope prevails in every corner of the world. As an ancient Chinese adage goes, “Those who only seek comfort for themselves will ultimately be rejected and those who sacrifice their own interests for the success of others will be supported”. Development is the right of all countries, rather than an exclusive privilege of the few. We need to enable all countries to step up development cooperation, and see to it that the fruits of development are shared by all. We need to bring greater equity, higher efficiency and stronger synergy to global development, and jointly oppose the practice of seeking technology blockade and divide as well as decoupling. I believe that, in the final analysis, any political manipulation for the purpose of sabotaging the development of other countries and undercutting the livelihood of other peoples will receive little support and prove to be futile.

Fourth, we need to shoulder the responsibility to enhance cooperation by working together to address global risks and challenges. In the face of the on-going COVID-19, we need to continue with a science-based response approach and advocate solidarity and cooperation so as to close the “immunization gap”. We must oppose the practice of politicising the pandemic or attaching a geographical label to the virus. We need to work together to build a global community of health for all. In the face of terrorism and other common enemies of mankind, we need to pursue security and stability through cooperation so as to tighten the security fences together. In the face of the fragile ecological environment, we need to respect Mother Nature, follow the laws of Nature and protect her so as to build a green homeland together. In the face of the severe challenges to human existence and development brought about by climate change, we need to be brave enough to take responsibilities and work as one to find a way of harmonious co-existence between man and Nature.

Fifth, we need to shoulder the responsibility to improve governance by enhancing our capacity to ensure the people’s wellbeing. There are different pathways toward wellbeing. People of all countries are entitled to choose their own development paths and institutional models. This, in itself, is what wellbeing entails. In the same vein, democracy is the right of all peoples, rather than an exclusive privilege of the few. There are multiple ways and means to realise democracy, instead of a single stereotype. The judgment on whether a country is democratic or not should be made by their people, not by the handful of others. To advance political democracy in a way that suits the national conditions of a country, we need to strengthen exchanges and mutual-learning, improve mechanisms for communication, be fully aware of the public opinion, put into place well-fledged institutions and enhance our governance capacity. By doing so, our capacity and efficacy to ensure the people’s wellbeing will be elevated continuously.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

Working for the people’s wellbeing has been the original aspiration the Communist Party of China cherishes all the way. With the goal of moderate prosperity in all respects achieved, China has embarked on a new journey towards building a modern socialist country. The Chinese people are brimming with a greater sense of fulfillment, happiness and security with each passing day. It is the unswerving goal of the CPC to run our own house well, ensure a happy life for the 1.4 billion plus Chinese people, and advance the lofty cause of promoting peace and development of all mankind. The CPC will continue to uphold the people-centred development philosophy, reflect upon the overarching issues of national rejuvenation and human progress in the greater context of time and space and lead the entire Chinese people in creating an even better tomorrow through ceaseless pursuit and in an enterprising spirit.

As history has taught us, we can only embrace the future when we embrace the world, and can only travel safe and sound when we walk together. The CPC stands ready to work with world political parties to live our dreams and act to create a better future. Let us always be builders of world peace, advocates for global development, and guardians of the international order.

—The CPC will unite and lead the Chinese people in pressing ahead with the Chinese-style modernisation to make new contributions to humanity’s search for ways to modernise. Proceeding from reality in all it does, the CPC has led the Chinese people in finding, through trial and error, the path of socialism with Chinese characteristics. History and practice have proven and will continue to prove that this is not only the correct path that works, but also the sure path that pays off. We will unswervingly follow the path leading to a bright future to ensure that development is pursued for both our own good and the benefit of the world. There doesn’t exist a fixed model for the path to modernisation, and the one that suits you well will serve you well. Cutting one’s feet to fit the shoes will lead nowhere. All efforts of individual countries to independently explore the path to modernisation in light of their specific national conditions are worthy of respect. The CPC is willing to share with political parties of all countries modernisation experience to enrich each other’s toolbox to modernisation for better ensuring the wellbeing of their own people and all other peoples.

—The CPC will unite and lead the Chinese people in taking comprehensive steps to deepen reform and opening up to make new contributions to shared development and prosperity of all countries of the world.Currently, economic globalisation, despite facing considerable headwinds, has in storage even greater impetus to move forward. On the whole, the impetus prevails over the headwinds and the trend towards opening-up and cooperation in all countries remains unchanged, and will not change. The CPC is ready to enhance communication with world political parties in steering economic globalisation towards greater openness, inclusiveness, balance and win-win results. We stand ready to work with the international community to improve global connectivity and further promote high quality Belt and Road cooperation, so that more countries and peoples will be able to share the fruits of development.

—The CPC will shoulder its responsibilities as a major political party in a major country to make new contributions to improving the wellbeing of mankind.The eradication of poverty has been a common aspiration of people of all countries and an important objective that all political parties strive to achieve. Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC, all the 98.99 million rural residents living below the current poverty line in China have been lifted out of poverty, enabling China to meet the poverty reduction target set out in the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule. The CPC is willing to contribute more Chinese solutions and Chinese strength to the poverty reduction process worldwide. It will spare no effort to support international cooperation against COVID-19 and to enhance the accessibility and affordability of vaccines in developing countries. China will make extremely arduous efforts in delivering its promise of achieving carbon peak and carbon neutrality and contribute more to the global fight against climate change. China is going to host the 15th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity, where parties will consult with one another on new strategies for biodiversity and embark on a new journey of global biodiversity governance.

—The CPC will actively improve global governance to make new contributions to humanity’s joint response to common challenges.Multilateralism has been the core concept of the current international system and order. The better multilateralism is practiced, the faster humanity’s common problems will be resolved. International rules should be based on universally-recognised norms rather than rules of the few. Cooperation among countries should aim at serving all mankind instead of seeking hegemony by way of group politics. We should stand opposed to the practice of unilateralism disguised as multilateralism and say no to hegemony and power politics. Upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, China is of the view that matters concerning all shall be handled through joint consultation so that the international order and system will be more just and equitable. I wish to reiterate that China will always be a member of the developing world, and is committed to enhancing their representation and voice in the global governance system. China will never seek hegemony, expansion or sphere of influence. The CPC will work with political parties of all countries to promote state-to-state coordination and cooperation through party-to-party consultation and cooperation and bring into better play the due role of political parties in global governance.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

Our journey ahead will be a long and arduous one. But as long as we press ahead with a sense of perseverance, there will be much to expect. There will be twists and turns down the road, but hopes abound. The CPC stands ready to continue to work with political parties and political organisations of all countries to stand on the right side of history and the progressive side of mankind. Let us make even greater contributions to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind and that of a better world!

 

I thank you all.

 

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