The Understanding China Conference, commemorating its 10th anniversary in 2023, convened in Guangzhou, China, attracting a diverse group of officials, experts, entrepreneurs, foreign envoys, and representatives from international organizations and multinational companies. Over a decade, this conference has evolved into a pivotal global platform for fostering dialogue and understanding between China and the international community.
This year’s conference, themed “China’s New Endeavors amid Unprecedented Global Changes,” focused on expanding the convergence of interests and building a community with a shared future. Discussions centered on critical global issues like security and development, reflecting on the rapid evolution of China and its implications for global dynamics.
Zheng Bijian, the founding chairman of the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy, highlighted the conference’s role in bridging the “understanding deficit” that exists between different countries and civilizations. He emphasized the importance of mutual comprehension between China, particularly the Communist Party of China, and the rest of the world in navigating global changes.
Neil Bush, founder and chair of the George H.W. Bush Foundation for US-China Relations, emphasized the value of firsthand experiences in fostering mutual respect and cooperation during his speech at the thematic forum on Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) and Global Inter-Civilizational Exchanges and Mutual Learning. He cited examples of positive cultural exchanges, such as Governor Gavin Newsom’s visit to China and various city-level interactions, highlighting their role in deepening understanding between the U.S. and China.
Katherine McMahon, Acting Deputy Director of the National Museum of Australia, shared her experiences from a recent art exhibition in Beijing, illustrating how cultural institutions play a vital role in promoting understanding. She reflected on past collaborations between Australian and Chinese museums and art institutions as prime examples of fostering global inter-civilizational exchanges and mutual learning.
Vikram Channa, Vice President of Production and Development at Discovery Networks Asia-Pacific, commented on China’s ancient civilization and its continuity, underscoring its capacity for understanding and embracing other cultures. He noted that the GCI could bridge gaps between civilizations, with platforms like the Understanding China Conference facilitating dialogue and mutual learning. Channa proposed documentaries as a powerful medium for disseminating China’s stories, particularly to the youth, to promote understanding among different cultures.
Li Fang, Deputy Editor-in-Chief of the People’s Daily Overseas Edition, discussed the GCI, Global Development Initiative (GDI), and Global Security Initiative (GSI) at the forum. She pointed out that these initiatives reflect the inclusive and peaceful nature of Chinese civilization, encouraging people to draw wisdom from ancient civilizations to promote common peace, kindness, harmony, and integrity.
The conference, through its decade-long journey, underscores China’s commitment to advocating joint inter-civilizational dialogue, opposing discrimination against specific civilizations, and safeguarding the diversity of world civilizations. It aligns with the Chinese saying about persistence and dedication leading to achieving goals, symbolizing the ongoing effort to enhance understanding and build consensus among different civilizations. The Understanding China Conference, as a bridge-building initiative, signals an optimistic future for global cooperation and mutual understanding.
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