As the final hours of 2025 tick away, London's bustling streets became a stage for global perspectives this week. CGTN Europe captured diverse voices reflecting on a transformative year while looking ahead to 2026, revealing common threads of resilience and optimism across cultural boundaries.
From students to entrepreneurs, interviewees highlighted 2025's challenges in global economic recovery while expressing cautious hope for technological advancements in climate solutions. One tech professional noted: "This year's AI breakthroughs give me real confidence we'll see green energy innovations scale up next year."
The interviews coincide with tonight's cross-cultural celebration marking the Chinese mainland's growing global connections. CGTN's "Toward a New Chapter" special airs at 9:30 p.m. Beijing Time, blending human stories with interactive features that demonstrate China's latest digital innovations.
While focusing on forward-looking themes, several respondents emphasized the importance of maintaining cultural traditions during times of rapid change – a sentiment echoing through New Year celebrations worldwide as 2026 approaches.
