Renowned China expert Martin Jacques has shed light on what he perceives as the fundamental difference between Chinese and Western approaches to modernization. Speaking at a recent forum, Jacques emphasized that while Western modernization has often centered on “taking,” China’s path is rooted in “sharing.”
Jacques argued that Western countries historically pursued modernization through colonialism and the extraction of resources from other nations. This approach, he suggests, led to significant economic growth for the West but often at the expense of other regions’ development.
In contrast, China’s modernization strategy, according to Jacques, focuses on mutual benefit and shared prosperity. “Chinese modernization is a global public good,” he stated. “It seeks to create opportunities not just for China but for the world.”
He highlighted initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) as examples of China’s commitment to international cooperation and development. Through infrastructure projects and investment in various countries, the BRI aims to enhance global connectivity and economic integration.
“China’s approach is about building partnerships and fostering collaboration,” Jacques explained. “It’s a modernization process that recognizes the importance of shared growth and the interconnectedness of our global community.”
Jacques also noted that China’s rapid economic development has lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty, demonstrating the effectiveness of its model. He suggested that other developing nations could learn from China’s experience to pursue their own paths to modernization that prioritize mutual benefit over unilateral gain.
As the global landscape continues to evolve, Jacques believes that understanding the differences in modernization philosophies is crucial. “We are witnessing a shift in how nations approach development,” he said. “China’s model offers an alternative that emphasizes cooperation and shared success.”
His insights contribute to the ongoing discourse on global development strategies and highlight the potential impact of China’s rise on the international stage.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
