The highly anticipated World Economic Forum, also known as the "Davos Forum," will be held in Davos, Switzerland, from January 15 to 19. More than 2,800 representatives from over 120 countries and regions are gathering together to explore the future of the world economy under the theme of "Rebuilding Trust." Chinese Premier Li Qiang will attend the opening ceremony of the forum and deliver a speech as an invited leader.
This year's forum is held against the backdrop of the most complex geopolitical and geo-economic situation in decades, summarized by Western media as the four "C"s: conflict, the new cold war, climate, and chaos. The international community has high expectations for the forum, with over 300 dignitaries in attendance, including more than 60 heads of state and government, hoping that Davos will become an accelerator for promoting cooperation. China's active participation and demonstration of an open, cooperative attitude undoubtedly represent a positive signal that all participants hope to see, as it is the greatest certainty and reliable force amid geopolitical and global economic uncertainties.
Since its first participation in the annual meeting in 1979, China has been an active participant in the Davos Forum, which has also become the best witness to China's integration and mutual development with the world. Today, the Davos Forum has become an important occasion for Chinese leaders to clarify China's development concepts to the outside world, and representatives from all parties hope to hear China's voice here. From the speech by the Chinese premier to the discussions on China's economy and sustainable development in various events of the forum, this Davos Forum will continue to demonstrate China's firm attitude toward deepening opening-up and supporting globalization, and continue to write the story of China's integrated development and mutual achievements with the world.
As an important annual occasion to check the pulse of the global economy, this year's Davos Forum not only continues last year's main tone of "Cooperation in a Fragmented World," but also once again issues an early warning about the dangers of division and confrontation in the world. It points directly to the serious trust crisis, a core issue facing the world today. The forum hopes to provide new opportunities for growth and create new conditions for development for the world economy, which is struggling to recover, by discussing the basic principles of rebuilding trust. As executive chairman of the World Economic Forum Klaus Schwab noted, the current level of pessimism is unprecedented and rebuilding trust in the future is crucial. "These holistic narratives require global, national, and local cooperation."
In terms of promoting the world in rebuilding trust and accelerating economic recovery, Davos and China share a consistent stance of advocating the resolution of major crises through unity and cooperation, abandoning zero-sum games and returning to win-win cooperation, and opposing "decoupling" and "small courtyard with high walls." In particular, the core topics discussed this year, such as creating growth and employment for the new era, promoting economic and social development with artificial intelligence, and implementing long-term climate, natural and energy strategies, are in line with Chinese modernization that China is currently promoting. The narrative of promoting countries to work together to respond to challenges, achieve common prosperity, and build a global community with a shared future is what China has been working hard to advocate and implement. The alignment between China and Davos Forum illustrates the mainstream of the world and the aspirations of the people.
It is necessary to emphasize that in the current environment of continued weak global economy, rebuilding trust can never be achieved through the so-called "de-Sinicization." It can only be achieved by continuously deepening cooperation with China and starting with truly understanding the inseparable integrated development of China and the world. In the future-oriented economic framework, a multi-dimensional, diverse and dynamic China, as well as a China that is steadfast in deepening opening-up and supporting globalization, is for sure a development opportunity and partner for all countries in the world.
The organizers of the Davos Forum raised this question about the outlook for this annual meeting on their official website: Will the coming year be a period of "permacrisis"? Or will 2024 be a time for resolution and recovery? Regarding this issue, the positive signal sent by China, the world's second largest economy and where the opportunities for future prosperity of the global economy lie, is exactly what Davos wants to hear the most, and it is also what the world wants to hear the most.
The Working Group on Enhancing Climate Action in the 2020s between China and the US was successfully launched on Friday via video conference with officials from the two sides engaging in in-depth and friendly discussions on key areas of cooperation, including energy transition, methane, circular economy, low-carbon provinces or states and cities.
This conference took place as part of a series of interactions between China and the US in various sectors at the beginning of 2024 amid efforts to implement the consensus reached during the top leaders' meeting in San Francisco last year and to further stabilize bilateral relations, analysts said. However, they also cautioned about potential negative factors from the US side that could impact the relationship, including the US' recent interfering in the Taiwan regional leader election.
The Friday video meeting was co-chaired by Xie Zhenhua, China's special envoy for climate change, and John Kerry, US special presidential envoy for climate. The two sides have agreed to maintain close communication, exchange and mutual learning, and carry out practical cooperation under the working group mechanism, in accordance with the consensus of the Sunnylands Statement on Enhancing Cooperation to Address the Climate Crisis, according to China's Ministry of Ecology and Environment.
The Friday meeting is a continuation of a series of exchanges between China and the US in different fields. On Thursday, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao held a phone call with US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo. On Wednesday, Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong met with US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas via video link.
China and the US started this intensive cross-departmental exchange at the beginning of the year, which indicates that both sides are earnestly implementing the consensus reached at the San Francisco summit, Li Haidong, a professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, told the Global Times.
The frequent interactions are positive and demonstrate that at the beginning of this year, on the basis of broad communication and exchange, China and the US are actively managing their differences, said Li, noting that all these communications are also beneficial for both sides.
However, whether this trend can last and China-US relations can be further stabilized depend crucially on whether the Biden administration shows leadership decisiveness and takes concrete actions to prevent negative factors or extreme forces within the US from damaging the bilateral relationship and ensure that US policy toward China does not deteriorate sharply due to domestic political factors, said Li.
Lü Xiang, a research fellow at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, noted that the US still perceives China as a competitor, indicating the potential for confrontation between the two sides. Moreover, the US has not ceased its provocations, especially on the South China Sea and the Taiwan question, necessitating China's heightened vigilance, Lü told the Global Times.
For example, according to media reports, the Biden administration will dispatch a delegation comprised of former senior officials to the island of Taiwan shortly after the island's regional leader election to be held on Saturday.
China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Friday that the US leaders have repeatedly expressed their adherence to the one-China principle, not supporting "Taiwan independence," and not seeking to use the Taiwan question as a tool to contain China.
"We hope that the US side will abide by its commitments, handle Taiwan-related questions carefully and properly, cease official exchanges with the island of Taiwan, refrain from sending any wrong signals to the separatist forces advocating 'Taiwan independence,' and refrain from interfering in Taiwan's regional elections in any form," said Mao.
If the US side genuinely wishes to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits, it should clearly oppose "Taiwan independence" and support China's peaceful reunification, said the spokesperson.
The US' tactics of saying one thing and doing another is shown in not only the Taiwan question but also other issues, and this is one of the cruxes of the bilateral relations, Li said.
The Taiwan question is the most serious and core issue of China-US relations at any time and China has put priority on it in dealing with its relations with the US, Li said, urging the US to fulfill its commitments on the Taiwan question and work in the same direction in promoting bilateral relations instead of damaging it.
With the completion of the first trial voyage of China's first domestically built drilling ship, the Mengxiang (Dream in English), the country officially became the third country in the world - following the US and Japan - to possess its own professional ocean drillship, which is dubbed as the aircraft carrier in marine science.
With this ship, Chinese scientists will certainly make great contributions to international deep ocean exploration, Tuo Shouting, director of the Integrated Ocean Drilling Program (IODP)-China Office, told the Global Times in an exclusive interview.
On December 27, 2023, the Mengxiang completed its trial voyage in the waters of the Pearl River Estuary in South China's Guangdong Province, marking a step forward for the country's exploration of deep-sea resources.
The ship sailed 500 nautical miles. The performance and various indicators of its main power and other marine systems all met relevant standards.
With a length of 179.8 meters and a width of 32.8 meters, the Mengxiang can travel 15,000 nautical miles and sustain itself for 120 days without returning to port.
The ship, featuring high stability and structural strength, can operate in unlimited navigational areas worldwide and drill as deep as 11,000 meters in the sea.
Boasting a world-leading marine drilling capacity, the ship will drill through the Earth's crust and into the upper mantle, contributing to the exploration of marine energy resources, protection of national energy security, and maritime power construction.
The mantle, accounting for four-fifths of the Earth's volume and three-fourths of its mass, is full of scientific mysteries waiting to be explored by scientists.
Construction of the Mengxiang kicked off in November 2021 and is planned to be comprehensively completed in 2024. The ship was officially named Mengxiang on December 18, 2023, when it started its trial voyage.
"The vessel not only carries the dream of the Chinese people to build a maritime power, but also carries the dream of global scientists to 'penetrate the Moho discontinuity and enter the upper mantle,' and carries the dream of human beings to develop deep Earth resources," Li Jinfa, director of the Geological Survey under the Ministry of Natural Resources, told media when explaining the name of the vessel.
From participant to leader
China has been a participant in the IODP for a long time. With the completion of the construction of the Mengxiang, China will be able to independently organize expeditions, just like the US, Japan and Europe, Tuo Shouting said.
He expected that, with the vessel, China can transit from a participant to a leader of the program, playing a more significant role in international deep-sea drilling.
The IODP is an international marine research collaboration that explores Earth's history and dynamics using ocean-going research platforms to recover data recorded in seafloor sediments and rocks and monitor subseafloor environments. The program now has more than 20 member nations.
China started to participate in the program as an associate member in 1998 and became an official member in 2004.
Currently, China sends eight to nine scientists every year to attend the voyages of the US drillship Resolution to join global scientists to conduct research.
According to Tuo, the most prominent achievements of Chinese scientists in previous missions are the four ocean drilling expeditions in the South China Sea, through which Chinese scientists made a series of breakthroughs in the deep parts of the South China Sea, proposed new understandings related to climate change and basin formation, and challenged the traditional Atlantic model theory.
The achievements have helped China win the international leading position in deep-sea research in the South China Sea and provided important theoretical reference for deep water oil and gas exploration in the region, Tuo said.
Due to the phased end of the IODP in 2024 and the planned retirement of the US vessel Resolution the same year, Europe and Japan are organizing and initiating the next phase of program. Therefore, China is also preparing to launch its own expedition plan and seeking to cooperate with Europe and Japan to jointly lead global ocean drilling, Tuo said.
He revealed that China has already been compiling an international ocean drilling implementation plan (2025-2035) and the completion of Mengxiang will provide key equipment support for China-led expeditions in the future.
China-initiated ocean drilling will greatly enhance the country's innovation capabilities in deep-sea scientific research, observation and exploration, and development of intelligent equipment, Tuo said.
Moreover, ocean drilling has long been a "rich man's club" in the developed world, but the waters at the heart of many scientific problems lie within the exclusive economic zones of developing countries. China will actively expand international cooperation partnerships and build a Belt and Road ocean drilling alliance through cooperation with developing countries, especially those associated with the Belt and Road Initiative. This will promote China's platform to carry out expeditions globally and help more developing countries enter the field of deep-sea research, Tuo stressed.
The 19th Chinese American Film Festival (CAFF) and the Chinese American Television Festival (CATF) kicked off on Thursday in Los Angeles, the US, contributing to a close cultural exchange between the world's two largest film markets.
In a video address at the opening ceremony, Yang Guorui, deputy director of China's National Radio and Television Administration, said that over the last 19 years, Chinese-American film and TV festivals have set up a successful platform for China-US exchanges and cooperation in the audiovisual industry, according to Xinhua News Agency.
James Su, chairman of the CAFF and the CATF, told the Global Times on WeChat that the festivals have been eyed as avenues for the promotion of cooperation in the film and television industry between China and the US and enhancement of cultural exchanges and mutual learning. The festivals have built a bridge of friendship through film and television culture for better communication, understanding, and mutual benefit in the two countries.
Outstanding works
With the theme "Better Films, Better World," over 500 film and television works have applied to compete in the Golden Angel Award. Su noted the organizing committee's hopes that the festivals will bring peace, harmony, and love back to the world were based on the theme.
At the ceremony, all the winners were announced, with The Wandering Earth II, the closing film at the festivals, crowned the Best Film, and Meg 2: The Trench, the opening film, earning the title of Best China and US Cooperation Film.
Disney's Avatar: The Way of Water and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, Universal Pictures' Fast X, Paramount Pictures' Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, and Sony Pictures' Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse were all awarded the Most Popular US Films in China.
The Knockout was recognized as the Best TV Series. Guo Fan and Xu Jizhou were named the Best Directors of CAFF and CATF for their work The Wandering Earth II and The Knockout respectively.
Outstanding Chinese film and television works such as Manifesto, 30,000 Miles from Chang'an, Lost in the Stars, Wild Bloom, and Long River in the World received the Golden Angel Award for the top 10 films and television dramas.
Eleven works including Path Finders, About the Clouds, and Tale of the Night received the China Culture Communication Award, which was established in 2021.
The purpose of the China Culture Communication Award, according to Su, is to recognize that the organizing committee views film and television art as a cultural conduit, and culture serves as an important bridge for human exchanges and mutual learning.
"The international spread of Chinese culture contributes to mutual exchanges and learning between Chinese civilization and global civilizations, aiding the modernization and internationalization of Chinese culture," he said.
Over 10 Chinese films will be screened during the screening week of the festivals.
According to Su, this marks the first face-to-face dialogue between leading figures in the Chinese and American film and television industry and experts and scholars since the start of the global pandemic. They assembled in Los Angeles to jointly explore cooperation and the future of the Chinese-American film and television industry.
He mentioned that compared to previous years, this year's festival has seen a more practical and proactive approach from both China and the US. The Los Angeles County Government in the US designated November as "Chinese American Film Festival, TV Festival Month" for the eighth consecutive year, and officials at various levels in the US are actively supporting this year's event.
Comprehensive support
Founded in 2005, the festival is a China-US cultural event recognized by both the US and Chinese governments. The annual event is usually held in November in Los Angeles.
One of the highlights of this year's edition is the introduction of the "investment and innovation unit," which provides comprehensive support for excellent film projects from both China and the US. The unit is dedicated to identifying talented filmmakers from both countries with creative potential and recognizing and supporting outstanding projects that have international, artistic, intellectual, and market value.
The festival will combine the best American culture with Chinese culture in an open and inclusive manner. By discovering and supporting high-quality works, it seeks to further enhance the progress and international reach of film and television culture in the new era, according to Su.
Additionally, a TV program will officially be launched on ICITI TV, a TV station based in Los Angeles, on Friday, to introduce the ancient history and fruitful tourism resource of Southwest China's Guizhou Province.
Yu Jinlong, a Beijing-based cultural critic, told the Global Times that CAFF and CATF can enhance cultural and artistic exchange between China and the US, allowing US citizens to learn more about China's rich history, culture, and contemporary achievements, thus strengthening people-to-people exchanges and contributing to the stability and development of China-US relations.
Recently, Gavin Newsom, governor of the US state of California, concluded a week-long visit to China after engaging in discussions with Chinese officials, local authorities, and business representatives on topics related to cultural exchange, climate change, economic development, and tourism.
Yu pointed out that as high-level exchanges between the two countries intensify, signs of a warming trend in China-US cultural relations are emerging.
Following an incident in which a vehicle rammed into the Chinese Consulate in San Francisco on Monday afternoon local time, the Chinese Foreign Ministry, along with the Chinese consulate, voiced strong condemnations of this attack, and urged the US to swiftly conduct an inquiry and to take robust measures to ensure the safety of Chinese diplomatic establishments and personnel.
San Francisco police and fire crews attended the consulate after the vehicle crashed into the consulate's visa office on Monday, CBS News reported, citing the San Francisco Fire Department.
San Francisco police fatally shot the suspect who drove the vehicle, media reported, citing authorities.
The incident unfolded at 3:09 pm when an unidentified suspect drove a car into the visa office, located at Laguna Street and Geary Boulevard, and the vehicle came to a rest inside the office's lobby, local news site KTVU FOX 2 reported.
Police responded to the scene and made contact with the driver. During this encounter, an officer-involved shooting occurred, and the wounded male suspect was taken to a hospital where he later died, according to the news site. Police have not yet named the suspect.
On the morning of Tuesday Beijing time, an unidentified individual rammed a vehicle into the visa office of our Consulate-General in San Francisco in an attempt to hurt people and consulate staff on the spot, Wang Wenbin, spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, said at a routine press conference on Tuesday. The consulate swiftly responded to and dealt with the situation. The perpetrator was brought under control by the local police.
China has demanded a speedy investigation and effective steps from the US to ensure the safety of Chinese diplomatic missions and personnel in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, Wang said.
The Chinese Consulate General in San Francisco strongly condemned the attack and said it has lodged a formal protest with the US side.
This action posed a grave threat to the safety of the staff and the public inside the visa hall, causing serious damage to the consulate's facilities and property. The nature of this incident is extremely heinous, a consulate spokesperson said.
We strongly condemn this violent attack and reserve the right to pursue accountability related to this incident. We have lodged a formal protest with the US side, demanding a swift investigation to uncover the truth and to deal with the incident in accordance with the law, the consulate spokesperson said.
This is not the first time the Chinese consulate in San Francisco was attacked. In 2014, it was heavily damaged after an unidentified person set fire to the main gate, according to media reports.
After each of these incidents, the US government promised to enhance security for Chinese consulates, but subsequent events suggest that these promises have not been adequately upheld, media professional Hu Xijin said in a Weibo post on Tuesday.
It is evident that the situation in US society is chaotic, and it places Chinese consulate staff in a perilous situation akin to "diplomats in a war zone," Hu said, noting that the failure of the local police to prevent such incidents undoubtedly becomes a stain on US diplomacy.
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Chief Executive, John Lee Ka-chiu (Lee), led a high-level delegation of 70 people to participate in the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held in Beijing from October 18 to 19. At the forum, he invited entrepreneurs to Hong Kong to set up belt and road offices. After the forum, he sat down with the Global Times (GT) reporters Xie Wenting and Bai Yunyi for an exclusive interview, sharing his insights on Hong Kong's role in the BRI and Hong Kong's strengths on the global stage. Lee also touched on the "competitive role" of the Hong Kong-Singapore relationship, noting that as long as the "pie" of development is made big enough, everyone can also get a larger share.
GT: You led a high-level delegation of 70 people to Beijing on your latest visit to attend the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, including several high-ranking government officials as well as individuals from the business, academic, and scientific communities. What was the consideration behind this? What is Hong Kong's role in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)?
Lee: I hope to use this platform of the forum to better promote Hong Kong and seek business opportunities. Many of our delegates have also established personal connections with entrepreneurs from various regions, giving them the opportunity to personally introduce Hong Kong's advantages and services, which will be more persuasive.
Hong Kong is a participant, promoter, and beneficiary of the BRI. In the joint construction of the BRI, Hong Kong has its own unique advantages. We boast the position of "eight centers," namely, an international financial center, an international trade center, an international shipping center, and an Asia-Pacific international legal and dispute resolution service center, as well as four emerging centers: An international innovation and technology center, a Chinese and foreign cultural and art exchange center, an international aviation hub, and a regional intellectual property trading center. I believe that Hong Kong can play its role in promoting financial connectivity, attracting international investment, and promoting the internationalization of the Chinese currency renminbi (RMB).
GT: We noticed that not long ago you visited three Southeast Asian countries: Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. How do you evaluate the prospects for cooperation between Hong Kong and Southeast Asian countries under the framework of the BRI? Which are the areas that hold the greatest potential? In the past, people have often said that Hong Kong is a "bridge" between the East and the West. In the future, do you think Hong Kong will play a similar role between the Chinese mainland and Southeast Asia?
Lee: Hong Kong has a unique status granted by the central government and the One Country, Two Systems policy is implemented in the city. As one of the few cities in the world that can concentrate both China's advantages and international advantages, we are very lucky, and should therefore make good use of this advantage.
First, Hong Kong can help enterprises in the Chinese mainland go global, including in terms of financing, introducing talents, and scientific and technological cooperation. We can give full play to Hong Kong's functions as an international city. This is the "capital" we have accumulated over the years.
Second, Hong Kong attaches great importance to regional cooperation and hopes to have good relations with our neighbors. The ASEAN is Hong Kong's second-largest trading partner, after the Chinese mainland. This is why one of my two official trips this year was to the three ASEAN members, and I will also take time to visit other states.
In addition, the ASEAN is also an important force in helping Hong Kong join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) as soon as possible. I am very happy that when communicating with ASEAN states this time, many of them expressed their support for Hong Kong's joining of the RCEP. In the future, we will continue to promote regional cooperation with the ASEAN.
GT: Many people view Singapore as Hong Kong's "competitor" and believe that Singapore has the potential to replace Hong Kong as Asia's international financial center. What's your opinion on this view? Will Hong Kong be replaced by Singapore? Are Hong Kong and Singapore in competition, or do they have more room for complementarity and cooperation?
Lee: Hong Kong and many places have dual competitive and cooperative relationship. Competition is a good thing. Only with competition can we make progress. Healthy competition is beneficial. In fact, I have a very good relationship with Singapore's leadership. We often discuss how there is a lot of room for cooperation and development.
I think the most important thing (for a city) is to compete with itself. Competing with competitors is important, but it is likely that one day you will have surpassed your competitors. Will you not have goals then? So, every day we have to be the object of our own competition, to surpass what we accomplished the day before, and apply this philosophy to the future as an effective long-term goal.
Therefore, I often tell my colleagues that Hong Kong needs to compete and cooperate with other regions, taking advantage of their strengths and compensating for their weaknesses. This is beneficial for our own development. Cooperation between Hong Kong and all countries and regions is aimed at mutual benefit and win-win outcomes.
Relationships that only benefit one side are not sustainable. Maybe this time you gain more and I gain less, but next time I gain more and you gain less, and that's good.
In the end, what is the most important goal of competition? Is it the development of the economy or improving the lives of the people? As long as the "pie" of development is made big enough, everyone can also get a larger share. This is our ultimate goal.
GT: Some international media outlets have claimed that Hong Kong's international status and international attractiveness have declined in recent years. How do you respond to this claim?
Lee: Hong Kong is attractive in many aspects. In world rankings, Hong Kong holds many top positions: Our investment environment is ranked first globally, our offshore RMB trading volume is the highest in the world, and we are also the world's longest-living city. Hong Kong's public transportation system is ranked first among over 60 advanced cities, and we are the only city with an area of only 1,100 square kilometers that has five "Top 100" universities. Hong Kong also ranks second in many indicators worldwide: economic freedom, government efficiency, and innovation environment are all ranked second globally. Hong Kong has many aspects that other regions in the world envy.
The epidemic in the last few years has indeed slowed down Hong Kong's development in some areas. Some places in the world relaxed epidemic control measures relatively early, and therefore have a time advantage, but I think this advantage (relative to Hong Kong) is only temporary. Since resuming customs clearance, Hong Kong has fully integrated with the world. We are also "catching up with time" in different fields. Now, the work of the HKSAR government is all results-oriented, and many citizens also believe that many things are progressing faster this year than before. I think these are all positive factors for Hong Kong (in terms of international attractiveness).
GT: This year alone, you have visited many places in the Chinese mainland, from Beijing to Guangzhou, Shenzhen to Hainan, and Chongqing to Guizhou, among others… As the head of HKSAR, why do you visit the mainland so frequently? During these trips, what made a particularly profound impact on you?
Lee: I visited different places (in the mainland) to gain understanding. In fact, the main reason was I felt it imperative to do. Hong Kong's biggest opportunity lies in the country's development. It is most beneficial to Hong Kong to fully and proactively integrate into the overall development of the country.
At the end of 2022, I established the Steering Group on Integration into National Development to strengthen the integration of the entire HKSAR government and the entire society into the overall national development. This means that we need to develop close relations with different provinces and cities to work together for mutual benefit and win-win results. I attach great importance to this aspect and will continue to establish cooperative relationships (between them and Hong Kong) in different places.
Hong Kong now has different cooperation mechanisms and systems with many provinces and cities. I also often share my ideas with the leaders of various places in the mainland, that is, our cooperation must be "one plus one equals two." Hong Kong will put its best foot forward and so will our partners. This is "invincible."
GT: Not long ago, you expressed your confidence that the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area will develop into one of the most dynamic and competitive regions in China and even the world. What makes you so confident about the prospects of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area? The idea of the Greater Bay Area has been proposed for many years. Do you think the construction of the Greater Bay Area will usher in some big breakthroughs in the next year or two?
Lee: I believe that the Greater Bay Area is one of the most promising regions for development in the country. Currently, Hong Kong and Shenzhen have already achieved a high level of integration, and have formed strong cooperation ties with the entire Guangdong Province. With nine cities and two special administrative regions, each with its own advantages, it is no longer just a case of "one plus on," but rather the synergy of all 11 entities working together, resulting in significant collaborative efficiency.
Hong Kong has a lot to contribute to the Greater Bay Area and the country. First, there is a wealth of talent in Hong Kong. The city is able to attract international talents, with its highly internationalized universities that are among the top in the world.
Additionally, there are scholarships and exchange programs available, such as the "Belt and Road Scholarship," further enhancing the internationalization of Hong Kong's talent pool. Hong Kong's professionals in fields such as accounting and engineering are also highly aligned with international standards.
Second, Hong Kong has a strong advantage in scientific research. In the current complex global (geopolitical) environment, many researchers who had previously left Hong Kong or the Chinese mainland are now looking to return and conduct research in Hong Kong.
Third, Hong Kong implements the common law system, which is similar to the legal systems of many developed countries. As a result, these countries are more familiar with and trust Hong Kong's legal system. This can attract more international partners for cooperation and also make Hong Kong a preferred arbitration venue for international trade disputes.
The entire Greater Bay Area has a population of 86 million and its GDP is equivalent to the 10th largest economy in the world. It is larger than many countries, so the Greater Bay Area can compete strongly with other countries as a whole.
I feel very happy and proud that Hong Kong has the opportunity to contribute to the development of the Greater Bay Area, and Hong Kong will also benefit greatly from it, injecting strong momentum into its own economic development.
Aiming to find paths for the sustainable development of ancient walls and castle legacies around the world, an international conference was recently held in Xi'an, in Northwest China's Shaanxi Province.
The event was named the "2023 International Ancient Walls and Castles Alliance Conference." This year's agenda focused on the protection and sustainable development of ancient walls, aiming to share the latest conservation efforts addressing this subject worldwide.
Xiang Xinshuang, a cultural heritage expert, told the Global Times that the conservation of ancient architectures is a "global issue," particularly crucial for countries with long historical civilizations like Italy and China.
Apart from China, the 2023 event involved countries such as the UK, Italy, and Malaysia. A total of 13 representatives from these countries also participated in the event to showcase their unique development methods for the preservation of immovable cultural heritage.
Architect and urban planner Yuan Han told the Global Times that, regarding construction materials or structures, Chinese ancient architectural legacies are "significantly different from European ones." However, there is one principle agreed upon by all these time-honored countries, which is to "preserve their original and authentic essence."
"Protecting an ancient castle always entails a process of painstakingly restoring the architecture, bit by bit. To many architects, the value of an ancient building lies not in its aesthetics, but in its structure and configuration," Yuan explained.
Starting the conversation with the "difference" in China and the West's approaches, the 2023 international conference also intrigued global experts to share the contextual cultural and social values of their historical architectures.
Yuan informed the Global Times that in recent years, China has endeavored to emphasize the cultural significance of historical sites. This goal has been achieved through various programs like the "national-level famous historical and cultural cities" initiative.
By 2023, the program had designated 142 cities of historical importance. Some of these cities were once major capital sites of ancient dynasties, while others were significant economic capitals.
"The list was designed to conserve the cultural values of ancient buildings. It bodes well for their sustainable development. New opportunities like cultural tourism and international collaborations are all part of such sustainable development," Yuan remarked.
Wang Zhewen, an official with the Xi'an city wall management committee, stated that the conference is expected to promote mutual learning among those working to protect ancient walls and castles worldwide, ultimately expanding their global influence.
During the event, the 2023 International Ancient Walls and Castles Alliance launched an initiative to strengthen the conservation, heritage, and use of ancient city walls (castles). The initiative calls on members to work together towards goals such as upholding inclusiveness and coexistence, promoting exchanges and mutual learning, while also adhering to the principle of sharing resources and promoting common development.
This marks the first offline meeting held by the International Ancient Walls and Castles Alliance since its establishment in December 2020.
A recent public opinion survey conducted in Dubai targeting Arab youth revealed that eight out of 10 respondents consider China an ally, marking the highest number of respondents to hold this view in four years.
According to data from the United Nations Population Fund, the Arab region is characterized by a substantial youth population, with those under 30 years old constituting about 60 percent of the total population. As a result, numerous international media outlets have shown particular interest in this survey's results, which demonstrate an increasing trend of positive sentiments among Arab youth toward China.
The Global Times reporters found that with the advancement of internet technology and the expansion of avenues for people-to-people exchanges, Arab youth possess richer media exposure to China compared with previous generations. They also have more opportunities for face-to-face interactions with Chinese individuals, leading to a more diversified and contemporary understanding of China.
Moreover, Arab youth approaches the development of different nations worldwide with more pragmatic attitude and are eager to learn from the success stories of other countries.
Experts told the Global Times that further broadening the scope and depth of face-to-face exchanges between young people from China and Arab nations in technology, education, culture, and other domains should be a goal. An urge to strive forward
Strolling through shops across various Middle Eastern countries, one can find an array of everyday consumer goods from China, such as data cables, power banks, and phone cases.
During the Qatar World Cup in 2022, Global Times reporters visited Doha and found that the backs of each World Cup souvenir item bore the familiar "Made in China" label. Ahmed, a shop assistant at a World Cup souvenir store in Doha, confirmed that many of their products were imported from China, as the wide variety and good quality of Chinese goods are favored by consumers.
Liu Zhongmin, Director of the Middle East Studies Institute at the Shanghai International Studies University, told the Global Times that the positive perception of China held by youth from Arab countries is largely influenced by the bilateral economic and trade exchanges, particularly since the cities of Guangzhou in South China's Guangdong Province, Yinchuan in Northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, and Yiwu in East China's Zhejiang Province, became windows connecting China and the Arab world.
China is the largest trading partner of Arab countries, with bilateral trade volume reaching around $430 billion in 2022, a historical record.
When asked about their impressions of Chinese people, 21-year-old Algerian Nura Omri revealed that she had previously held a rather stereotypical view, believing that the Chinese were subject to arduous labor and were uninterested in engaging with the outside world. However, Nura's perception of Chinese people has significantly changed as she got to know more Chinese friends through learning the Chinese language.
Nura, a master's student majoring in Media and Geopolitics at the University of Algiers 3, secured second place in the Chinese Bridge Competition in Algeria this year after studying Chinese for over a year. Nura stated, "The Chinese nation is a wise one; the Chinese people, just like us, are warm and hospitable, and delight in helping others."
Liu commented that in the realm of culture and society, the influence of Chinese TV dramas and films on the Arab region is gradually increasing. According to media reports, Arabic-dubbed versions of Chinese TV dramas have been aired in multiple Arab countries.
Abdel-Rahman, a 23-year-old graduate from Qatar University, specifically chose to get an internship at a construction project under a Chinese enterprise in Doha. He told the Global Times that he often saw videos on the internet showcasing China's rapid infrastructure development, and this time he finally had the opportunity to see it for himself.
The most profound impression left on him was the efficient project organization and management by Chinese companies, as well as the excellent work capability of his Chinese colleagues. "I feel like every Chinese colleague is an 'all-rounder'; whenever there is a shortage of staff due to vacation or other reasons, they can seamlessly take on other roles."
Similarly, in the job market, Ferial Hamdi from Algeria also favors Chinese companies. Born into a Berber family in the eastern Bouïra Province, Farida received a quality education and is fluent in English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and Berber. After graduating from university, she chose to work at a local Chinese company rather than a Western or an American one.
She told the Global Times that people often jest that the Chinese are like "robots," but she embraces this culture. She believes that it is this tenacious spirit that has enabled the Chinese nation to achieve remarkable feats in the world. Working with Chinese colleagues continually sparks her urge to strive for more.
More diverse, positive attitude
Favorable sentiments expressed toward China by people in Arab countries began in the 1950s and 1960s when New China steadfastly and selflessly supported the national liberation efforts of Arab countries, generously providing assistance and winning the goodwill and appreciation of Arab nations.
Global Times reporters have visited with or interviewed a number of older scholars and statesmen from Arab countries, and found well-worn copies of Selected Works of Mao Zedong that bear the mark of time.
Al-Rawda, an 18-year-old freshman at Egypt's Suez Canal University, told the Global Times that "Since childhood, my elders have told me about China's achievements in various fields, as well as its history and culture. It is because of this understanding that I chose to study Chinese."
Zou Zhiqiang, a research fellow at Fudan University's Middle East Research Center, told the Global Times that while the older generation in the region holds a friendly attitude toward China, their knowledge of China is not comprehensive. In their impression, China is depicted as having a large population, relatively underdeveloped, and of average product quality.
"However, the younger generation is less influenced by traditional thinking and stereotypes, and holds fewer ideological burdens," Zou said. "Their views on China are more diverse and positive, impressed by China's economic achievements and advanced national development. They regard China as a global technological and economic leader, and view it as a valuable model for Arab countries to learn from."
Resentment against US' hegemony
Against the backdrop of the comprehensive strategic partnership relations established between China and Saudi Arabia, the Global Times public opinion center recently conducted an online survey titled "China-Arab Relationship in the Eyes of Saudi Arabian Youth," which was carried out through online questionnaires targeting young people aged between 18 and 35 in Saudi Arabia, from July 4 to 11. A total of 300 valid questionnaires were collected.
The data shows that over 70 percent of the respondents have a positive impression of China, while only 47 percent, that is, less than half of the respondents have a positive impression of the US. Additionally, more than 70 percent of the respondents were aware of the cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia in fields such as infrastructure, trade, and energy, and over two-thirds of the respondents stated that they personally felt the tangible improvements in people's lives brought about by this cooperation.
The US has had significant influence in Arab countries for quite a long time. Some governments in the region still harbor hopes of financial assistance from the US to drive their economic and social development, while some of their citizens have been greatly influenced by American culture and education. However, the US' hegemonic actions, including frequently interfering in other countries' internal affairs and meddling in Arab countries' affairs, have resulted in growing resentment among people in Arab countries, analysts said.
After the 9/11 attacks, the US accused Saudi Arabia of supporting terrorists, while continues to suppress Arab countries under the pretext of human rights violations and religious freedoms in these countries, which has led to a deteriorating impression of the US among many people in Arab countries.
This trend was reflected in a survey conducted by a Dubai-based public relations firm in July, which included face-to-face interviews with 3,600 youth aged 18 to 24 across 53 cities in 18 Arab countries, according to a report by CNN.
In the survey, 80 percent of respondents considered China to be an ally to their country, and the US ranks seventh among "friendly" nations, compared with China, which ranked second in the Arab Youth Survey.
Arab countries rely more heavily on US in military security, Liu told the Global Times. However, in a broader sense of partnership, the youth in these countries now see China as more of a partner and an "ally," as the US consistently places its own interests ahead of those of its allies, while China's cooperation with Arab countries in various fields is based on mutual respect and mutual benefit, Liu said.
"Unlike the US, which makes empty promises and attaches many stringent political conditions to its aid to Arab countries, China is the most trustworthy country in the world today. China keeps its promises and is a good friend, which has done many good things for Arab and African countries," AL-Labib, a young Egyptian, told the Global Times.
Face-to-face communication
China and the Arab world have a historical foundation of friendly exchanges, and the relationship is further supported by strong practical factors.
China emphasizes exchanges and mutual learning between different civilizations to promote people-to-people connectivity. Recent years have seen many achievements in youth exchanges between the two sides.
Among the eight major initiatives by China-Arab practical cooperation put forward at the first China-Arab States Summit in December, 2022, the seventh is the cooperation initiative on youth development.
In July, the China-Arab youth friendship ambassadors 2023 program was inaugurated, with nearly 100 young representatives from Arab countries coming to China for exchanges. The China-Arab Cultural and Tourism Cooperation Research Center was also established on August 1. The training and exchange program for young sinologists initiated by the Chinese government has also attracted active participation from many students from Arab countries. This series of projects helps enhance mutual understanding and consolidate goodwill between China and Arab countries.
Compared with government-level cooperation, Zou believes that face-to-face exchanges among young people are more direct, emotional, and free. When young people from China and Arab countries travel or study in each other's countries, they can make local friends and engage in in-depth conversations, which will help to enhance mutual understanding and deepen friendships between the people of the two sides in a subtler and more impactful ways.
Zou believes that in the future, deeper and wider youth exchanges between China and Arab countries should be increased in fields of science and technology, education, and culture. Youth from Arab countries have a strong interest in China's emerging technologies, and this group is also a key force for government-level technological cooperation. Chinese technology and gaming companies can expand into the Arab market and increase their popularity among youth from Arab countries, which in turn can also help Arab countries cultivate young scientists and innovative talents.
The 15th BRICS Summit, scheduled to be held in Johannesburg, South Africa, from August 22 to 24, has garnered substantial international attention. This summit holds significant importance in prompting discussions on various fronts. Within the BRICS framework, what role does China play? How do African people view the cooperation between China and Africa? Global Times reporters Xie Wenting and Zhao Juecheng (GT) in Johannesburg interviewed David Monyae (Monyae), director of the Center for Africa-China Studies at the University of Johannesburg, to delve into these crucial matters. GT: As the 15th BRICS Summit approaches, what are your expectations for the summit?
Monyae: The BRICS Summit in Johannesburg is going to be a major shift from a number of previous BRICS summits. Unlike previous BRICS summits, more countries said they are willing to join the organization. This is indeed a turning point. The discussions that we are looking forward to are the creation of a modality and criteria of how to join and who joins.
There is also the issue of unhappiness with the US dollar and how it is being used as a weapon. And the question of de-dollarization is going to be a central key on the agenda. However, I don't think that there will be a BRICS common currency. What I'm expecting to come out is BRICS countries trading with each other using their own local currencies. I think the other massive blow to the US dollar will come in the form of digital currencies.
Additionally, I think we should look into the communication issues of finding a better way for people-to-people exchanges among African countries. These are the issues that are critical for South Africa, critical for my own continent, Africa, and the Global South as a whole.
GT: How would you assess China's role within the BRICS?
Monyae: China is indeed a major BRICS member, major in the sense of the size of its economy which is massive and the second largest in the world. China has been making lots of breakthroughs in technology and in its infrastructure development. I think China has more to offer to fellow BRICS countries, and it is playing a critical role at this juncture. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Global Development Initiative (GDI), the Global Security Initiative (GSI), as well as the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) are getting more and more support in the Global South. It is in line with the thinking within the developing world to transform the United Nations and its agencies, ensuring that you work on security, development, and civilization simultaneously to achieve long-lasting peace and security.
GT: At least a dozen countries reportedly wanted to join the BRICS. What are the reasons behind these countries' desire to join the mechanism?
Monyae: The motives include the interests in the organization's economic development potential and their desire to build a more equitable global order.
What is key is that these emerging powers are unhappy with the current global order. For these emerging powers, when they look at the current global order led by the US and Western countries, the system hasn't evolved since 1945. It hasn't been changed to reflect the current realities in terms of the size of the economy, population, and other issues.
There is also unhappiness with the weaponization of the US dollar and the weaponization of some global public goods, such as SWIFT, in the aftermath of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. We have witnessed the Western world imposing sanctions on a number of countries, which has led to a rethinking within the developing world. They now recognize the need to work within the BRICS for economic reasons. If we consider the combined GDP of BRICS countries, it is now larger than the GDP of the G7.
The G7, by name, may not reflect the true strength of their economies as it once did. I believe what we are witnessing is the decline of the Western world in economic terms. This decline will not happen overnight, but the trend consistently points downward rather than upward. Therefore, I think this is of concern to the US and other Western countries.
I believe that developing countries aspire to strengthen their voices in determining how to manage their own economies and address climate change issues. They seek to establish a powerful presence among the developing nations, advocating for an equitable global order.
GT: The discussion of the expansion of the BRICS has raised concerns among Western countries, with some suggesting that it could pose a threat to the West. What is your perspective on this matter?
Monyae: Actually, I have edited a book on the BRICS in which I talked about it playing a complementary role rather than challenging the West. Regarding trade, I believe the traditional trade routes will still exist, but with the introduction of the BRI and BRICS in various sectors, we are likely to witness a multiplicity of currencies in the global basket of currencies. It gives countries a better chance to finance infrastructure and a number of other things. And there are better options in terms of which currencies they want to use, rather than having one singular US dollar and trade route. I believe you will see that trade does not have to go through Europe. Transportation does not have to go through Europe. There will be more direct flights among BRICS countries.
I think developed countries don't need to see the BRICS as a threat. It is an opportunity to negotiate and find answers to issues affecting global peace and security.
GT: Do you think that emerging economies represented by the BRICS and other organizations can still be a driving engine for global economic development?
Monyae: No doubt about it. I think the future is in the Global South. It is something that is mentioned and accepted by the developed countries themselves. Why am I saying that? I think it has to do with trends, considering the large population numbers in the Global South. However, trade is not fairly benefiting the Global South at the moment. But I believe that we will begin to see new ways of doing things through catalytic technologies that bring developing countries closer together. I am more positive that the future lies with the Global South.
GT: Do you think that the expansion of the BRICS is necessary and beneficial for the organization's development?
Monyae: I think the expansion is vital. You cannot have only five countries from the Global South speaking on behalf of the entire club. It is important to ensure that these countries represent a much wider range of nations and regions. We cannot continue to criticize the West while recreating similar dynamics within our own group. Therefore, we must avoid contradictions. Expansion is a natural progression that must occur. Previously, we had what was known as the Group of 77 and China within the United Nations. I believe that the expansion of the BRICS is going to revive the Global South massively. You cannot ignore countries such as Indonesia, Egypt, Argentina, and others who wish to join. These countries bring significant contributions to the global sector through their culture, knowledge, and natural resources among others. It is crucial for them to speak as one and converge to confront the worst challenges. GT: How do you envision the trajectory of the BRICS in shaping the future of international relations, trade, and economic development?
Monyae: I think taking a gradual approach is important. I think the BRICS also needs to move from rhetoric to practicality and find solutions to challenges that people in member states face. We in South Africa are facing a challenge in energy, for instance. And China has been playing a critical role in assisting South Africa to overcome the energy crisis. Across the African continent, there are numerous challenges, such as building bridges, dams, and airports, among others. Therefore, I believe that increased cooperation and collaboration are necessary, not only between Africa and China but also with India, Russia, and other new members.
By harnessing this energy, they will be able to address the key issues that people in the developing world face. These issues are quite simple: Food security, a change in our understanding of climate and the development of resilient approaches to climate change, as well as peace and development. More importantly, it is going to filter into the global institutions of global governance: The United Nations General Assembly, the United Nations Security Council, the World Trade Organization, and the World Health Organization.
GT: The concept of "de-dollarization" is currently a prominent topic, even within BRICS countries that are deliberating the possibility of a common currency. How do you assess the outlook for "de-dollarization" on a global scale?
Monyae: I don't foresee the likelihood of a BRICS currency coming out of the discussions this time. However, what I see as more likely is the start of a conversation to de-dollarize. I think the digitalization of BRICS countries' currencies is a threat to the US. With digital currencies, you don't need US dollars.
There is going to be a de-dollarization, but not overnight. There's going to be the thought of adding new additional global currencies in the global basket that give countries the ability to trade and finance infrastructure, which is an advantage for the Global South. The internationalization of RMB is ongoing. I think that of all BRICS countries, China has an advantage. It has established itself as a major country in trade, so it is easy for China to enter into agreement with many of these countries at a bilateral and regional level.
I believe that in the future, it's going to be a basket full of currencies. And there will be a very interesting world order, a multipolar world. GT: This year marks the 10th anniversary of the BRI. In what ways do you believe BRI programs have impacted Africa's development agenda?
Monyae: The BRI has played a critical role in Africa. We've seen major projects in Africa, such as ports, roads, power stations, and speed trains. Actually, we also see China playing a critical role as it has adopted a new approach to dealing with Africa different from the West. In Zimbabwe, for example, Chinese companies are open-minded and no longer solely focused on extracting resources and sending them to Europe. Instead, they are now prioritizing the beneficiation needs of developing countries.
BRI programs have also created more job opportunities in Africa. I believe that these kinds of initiatives are beneficial to the world, especially in terms of Africa's development.
"For this surgery, we have prepared for more than half a year," Xiao Yuehai told the Global Times when talking about the first laparoscopic surgery carried out in Solomon Islands.
Xiao is an urologist from the Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University (AHGMU) and a member of the second group of Chinese medical workers dispatched to the Solomon Islands.
We reused the laparoscope machines and organized a new one. This helped us save at least 4 million yuan ($548,320), Xiao said proudly.
The first laparoscopic surgery was conducted by Solomon Islands doctors under the guidance of Chinese medical staff. As of August 22, two such surgeries had been conducted.
"In the past, local doctors had to make an opening of 15-20 centimeters on the patient's torso when they conducted the surgery. The patient would lose a large amount of blood and have to be hospitalized for about one week before leaving the hospital. But now, they can leave the hospital two days after the surgery is completed," Xiao said.
Meaningful exchanges
This is not just happening in the Solomon Islands, but the whole South Pacific Islands region.
According to a fact sheet on cooperation between China and Pacific Island Countries (PICs) the Chinese Foreign Ministry released in May 2022, China has sent a total of 600 medical workers to PICs, who have treated 260,000 local patients, provided free medical services on over 100 occasions, and donated a significant amount of both medical machines and medicines. They have helped improve local residents' health and local medical service capacity.
In 2014, the China-assisted Navua Hospital opened to the public in Fiji, bringing benefits to over 30,000 local residents, according to the sheet.
In January 2016, the China-Australia-PNG Malaria Prevention Program was officially launched in Papua New Guinea (PNG), effectively enhancing the ability of malaria prevention and treatment. In October 2017, the Shenzhen municipal government helped launch malaria elimination program in the Kirivina Islands of PNG, reducing the local community's vulnerability to?malaria, the sheet noted.
After the start of COVID-19, the two sides have been helping each other combat the disease. China has held more than 10 bilateral or multilateral public health expert meetings via video link with PICs, which have established diplomatic relations with China, to share experience covering disease prevention, control, treatment and diagnosis. China has actively provided vaccines, supplies and financial assistance to PICs, helping the latter build quarantine cubicles and other facilities. As of May 2022, China had provided PICs with 590,000 doses of vaccines and over 100 tons of supplies, according to the sheet.
Restricted by their geographic location, medical standards across Pacific Islands Countries and the connectivity between the countries remains low, meaning local residents have difficulty in accessing treatment when faced with serious health issues.
China's medical support not only brings medicines and equipment to the region, but also advanced technologies, which have helped improve the development of local medical care and bolster the development of the friendship between China and the entire region.
The Chinese medical team also helps the Solomon Islands to organize an emergency medical team for the upcoming 2023 Pacific Games that is scheduled to be held in Honiara, Solomon Islands, between November 19 and December 2.
Chinese doctors' selfless contribution has won respect and recognition of local governments and residents.
In July, as Vanuatu celebrated the 43rd anniversary of its independence, Vanuatu President Nikenike Vurobaravu awarded nine members of the first Chinese medical team with state medals in recognition of their significant contribution to improving local medical standards and consolidating the China-Vanuatu cooperation in medical treatment and public health.
Teaching a man to fish
Apart from providing medical services directly to local residents, Chinese medical teams also train local medical staff "how to fish" through lectures, clinical practice and training sessions, which serve to enhance local medical capacity.
According to the Xinhua News Agency, from 2002 to July 2023, Chinese medical teams to Papua New Guinea held more than 11,000 training courses and held at least 70 lectures to local medical workers. They also provided training for the use of 240 technologies that had never been available in the country.
Medical teams in the Solomon Islands are delivering similar outcomes, despite only being active in the country for two years.
On August 14, AHGMU and the Ministry of Health and Medical Services of the Solomon Islands signed an MOU on medical cooperation. The two sides agreed on support and assistance in upgrading tertiary hospital care at the National Referral Hospital (NRH) in the Solomon Islands as the center of teaching, treatment of complicated cases and major referral center.
According to the MOU, the AHGMU will select senior doctors to be part of the China Medical Team in Solomon Islands, providing medical services to local communities. The Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Center and Minimally Invasive Urological Surgery Center will be established at NRH in the near future, in which both sides will work closely on medical equipment and instruments donated to NRH. Doctors, nurses, and administrative personnel will have opportunities to receive training and postgraduate education at AHGMU and related medical technology supports will be provided to the centers to assist NRH medical staff master specialized skills.
Growth in TCM
The arrival of Chinese medical teams also generated new awareness over traditional Chinese medicine in the South Pacific region.
"Thank you, China Medical Team, especially Doctor Jack Lei for giving much of your time with your experiences and techniques in delivering acupuncture treatment to me as one of your patients," commented a local resident on the Facebook page of the Chinese medical team.
In less than half a year, Lei, an expert in traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture from the medical team, has changed the local people's attitude toward acupuncture from "never heard of" to "pure magic."
Now the Chinese medial team is also teaching acupuncture and other TCM knowledge to local doctors and nurses and the team also hopes to send some local doctors to China to study acupuncture in the future.
Chinese naval hospital ship Peace Ark also visited the Solomon Islands in August during its "Harmonious Mission 2023."
During its visit to the Solomon Islands, Peace Ark provided free medical service to local people and overseas Chinese. It also dispatched multiple medical teams to deliver medical care, critical disease consultation and academic exchange.
In addition to the TCM consultation room's seven beds, some patients were seen with "cups" on their backs, or needles inserted in various acupuncture points on their legs, while other received moxibustion treatment on their feet. A local woman told the Global Times that she came to the hospital ship for treatment because she heard that Chinese medicine is famous and effective for foot pain.
"I feel very good. Chinese doctors are very good!" she said.
