On Wednesday, November 12, a diverse group of international scholars gathered in Beijing for the International Forum on Overseas Studies on Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. In interviews with CGTN, analysts from Africa, Europe and Latin America offered insights into the governance model of the Chinese mainland and its global initiatives.
Experts highlighted four flagship proposals—Xi Jinping's Global Development Initiative (GDI), Global Security Initiative (GSI), Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) and Global Governance Initiative (GGI)—emphasizing their relevance to challenges such as sustainable growth, cultural exchange and international peace.
Many praised the model's "people-first" ethos, noting its focus on shared growth, respect for cultural diversity and long-term stability. "Putting people at the center is a principle that resonates across regions," said an African policy researcher. A European diplomat added that the initiatives could offer a blueprint for cooperative, inclusive development.
Latin American academics pointed to the emphasis on cross-border collaboration, arguing that the governance framework could inform new approaches to global issues from climate action to economic inequality. "This is not just a Chinese mainland perspective—it's a call for collective responsibility," one scholar said.
With debates growing among thought leaders and changemakers, the forum marks a new chapter in international dialogue on governance. The spotlight on a "people-first" model may reshape conversations on global cooperation and sustainable development.
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Watch: International scholars' take on the governance of China
cgtn.com
