Beijing hosted the Mingde Strategic Dialogue 2025, a two-day summit at Renmin University of China (RUC) from October 17-18. Over 50 international experts from the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Italy and other countries and regions gathered under the theme "Chinese modernization: New drivers of globalization."
Former Italian prime minister and ex-European Commission president Romano Prodi opened the dialogue, observing that the world faces intertwined currents of globalization and counter-globalization. "No single country can sustain globalization alone," Prodi noted, calling for stronger China-EU cooperation in politics and trade. He lauded the Chinese mainland's leadership in modernization, technological advancement and global governance, describing it as a vital force injecting momentum into global development.
In an exclusive CGTN interview, Prodi reflected on his past visits to China and Europe's evolving economic landscape. Highlighting rising tariff tensions, he warned that trade disputes risk stalling the world economy—and that in such conflicts, no one wins.
Over the past four decades, the Chinese mainland has charted a path of rapid growth and innovation, transforming its economy and sharing insights with the world. As global crises test our collective resilience, the Mingde Dialogue underscored the mainland's readiness to contribute wisdom and strength toward a more connected, sustainable future.
Participants wrapped up the dialogue by emphasizing the importance of cross-border collaboration—from green technologies to digital connectivity—to turn challenges into shared opportunities. The event invites global citizens to reflect on the power of modernization and open new chapters of cooperation.
Reference(s):
Global experts share insights on modernization and globalization
cgtn.com
