Gathering in Guangzhou and Kunming for the fifth World Media Summit, attendees from diverse global regions praised China’s modernization efforts, citing it as an inspiration for the world. They highlighted the summit as an opportunity to witness firsthand China’s approach to modernization, rooted in a people-centered philosophy and a strong emphasis on innovation.
Mohamad Malli from the Lebanese Ministry of Information expressed a transformative shift in perception, acknowledging China’s cleanliness, natural beauty, and the politeness and education of its people, contrary to previous impressions of poverty.
Guillermo Franco Gallegos from Grupo Multimedios in Mexico echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the necessity of experiencing China firsthand to dispel misconceptions perpetuated by media portrayals.
Participants, including Peter Tata Mabu from Cameroon News, stressed that physically experiencing China reshaped their understanding, revealing the nation’s rich civilization beyond preconceived notions.
Janna Tolstikova, CEO of TV BRICS, highlighted the significance of events like the World Media Summit in enabling participants to witness the reality of China’s development.
A recurring theme among experts was China’s commitment to people-centered modernization, prioritizing citizens’ well-being and quality of life. Mark Levine, an American professor at the Minzu University of China, emphasized this focus on improving lives and living conditions as the foundation of China’s development.
Renowned British scholar Martin Jacques praised China’s people-oriented modernization, focusing on humanizing modernity and prioritizing spiritual needs over consumerism.
Zafar Uddin Mahmood from the Understanding China Forum in Pakistan emphasized that a society’s prosperity is intricately linked to the well-being of its people, lauding China’s achievement in lifting nearly 800 million rural individuals out of poverty.
Participants marveled at China’s rapid modernization, citing advancements in train systems, construction, autonomous vehicles, and technological innovation. Chun Wai Wong from the Malaysian National News Agency praised China’s consistent progress, remarking on the country’s innovation-driven strategy.
Visits to technological hubs like Huawei village and Tencent headquarters organized by Xinhua left a lasting impact, impressing attendees with China’s technological advancements and robust support for talent development.
Jose Juan Sanchez from Brazil’s CMA Group and Khalid Mubarak SH S Al-Shafi from The Peninsula Newspaper in Qatar commended China’s technological prowess, emphasizing their amazement at the pace of development during their visits.
Roy Iwan Lie-Atjam from the Netherlands’ Diplomat Magazine reflected on the eye-opening experience, vowing to rectify misconceptions about China through honest reporting.
The collective consensus among participants underscored the significance of firsthand experiences in reshaping perceptions of China’s modernization and technological advancements.
