“China views pursuit of common prosperity as a key international principle”

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): At a seminar hosted by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) titled “Analyzing China’s Approach to ‘Peace through Development’ and the World’s Response,” Professor Gao Jian, a Senior Expert and Secretary General of Shanghai Academy of Global Governance and Area Studies at Shanghai International Studies University, provided an in-depth analysis of China’s modernization model. Exploring its historical evolution, economic impact, and influence on the global order he noted that modernization narratives have historically been West-centric, shaped by European industrialization. However, China has emerged as a major global player, challenging traditional Western frameworks and offers an alternative modernization model rooted in economic growth, political stability, and cultural heritage.
Tracing China’s modernization efforts back to the 19th century, Professor Gao explained how Chinese intellectuals recognized modernization as essential for national survival, leading to various reform attempts. The turning point came in 1979, when Deng Xiaoping introduced social and economic reforms under the Open-Door Policy, setting China on its rapid trajectory of economic growth.
Over the past four decades, China has become the world’s second-largest economy, and has surpassed USA in certain metrics. Professor Gao attributed this success to China’s strategic economic policies, continuous learning, and prioritization of stability and prosperity, underlining that despite global discussions on economic decoupling and de-risking, China remains committed to further opening its economy to the world.
Addressing the core theme of peace through development, Professor Gao emphasized that economic growth is central to modernization, while peace remains a fundamental aspiration in international relations. He argued that a successful modernization strategy, like China’s, can contribute to global stability by fostering interdependence and cooperation.
Professor Gao also underscored that peace and development cannot be separated. China upholds “common prosperity” as not only a domestic principle but also an international value. “For lasting peace, it is essential to consider the interests of all countries, irrespective of their size and status. Every nation should have access to economic development, which is why Chinese modernization focuses on sharing and opening doors wider”, he noted.
Ambassador Jauhar Saleem, President IRS, in his remarks on the occasion, highlighted the need for inclusive economic growth and enhanced global engagement, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful development and mutual prosperity. He credited China’s rise as the world’s largest trading nation and its success in lifting 800 million people out of poverty to policies focused on building economic cooperation. He also called for enhanced cooperation between nations for resolving international conflicts through peaceful dialogue, global governance reforms, multilateralism and fostering of regional economic partnerships. He called for a people-centric approach to be adopted in the second phase of CPEC, focusing on investment in skill development, technology transfer, and employment generation, which was essential for harnessing the potential of Pakistan’s young population.