Pedro Anjos, researcher of the Portugal China observation Institute, attended the "China in Sight, Global Insight" Forum 2023 and delivered a speech.

Following is the full text of his speech:

Dear hosting entities of the “China in Sight, Global Insight” Forum 2023,

I am honored to be here and speak with you today on the globally significant topic of sustainable development, and the model presented by China. With environmental challenges and socio-economic disparities affecting us today, the world needs examples to lead us to a future where growth, equity, and environmental responsibility are in balance.

Known for its economic success, China has undergone a notable shift to try and align growth with sustainability. This transformation centers around a complex combination of policies, innovations, and proactive measures, signaling a new era in global development.

China has committed itself to reduce its carbon emissions and combat climate change. Furthermore, it has established itself as one of the global leaders in renewable energy production, making significant investments in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power. These efforts reflect its dedication to mitigating environmental damage while fostering economic growth.

China’s model can offer valuable insights for the global community, and it has proven to be deserving of further research. While having a people’s centered approach, the integration of state-led initiatives and market-driven mechanisms showcases the potential for collaboration between governments and the private sector.

As we navigate through the challenges of the 21st century, we must adopt a collective mindset that will enable us to face common challenges (such as climate change) and learn from different countries that may offer new perspectives and solutions towards these problems, where growth can be achieved in a sustainable, equitable and inclusive way.

Reflecting on the recent field trips to Beijing, Foshan and Shenzhen, I have gained a deeper understanding of China’s journey towards modernization and sustainable development.

The visit to Beijing showcased China’s multi-dimensional strategy for sustainable urban progress, contrasting its cityscape with a captivating tapestry of history and culture. The coexistence of ancient and contemporary landmarks shows us the value of conserving cultural heritage alongside the pursuit of sustainable development.

Additionally, the trip to Foshan highlighted China’s industrial success aligned with a conscious approach to environmental protection, with its focus on circular economy, visible throughout the whole city. The visit to Grandblue Environment facilities was especially interesting, as it allowed to gather first-hand knowledge on the processes of waste management and urban development in an eco-friendly manner.

Finally, the opportunity to explore the vibrant landscapes of Shenzhen, a city at the forefront of China’s technological advancement and innovation, was enlightening. Observing the integration of state-of-art technology, city planning, and eco-friendly infrastructure showcased the significant influence of innovation on sustainable progress, emphasizing the crucial contribution that technology makes in shaping our cities.

Overall, these insights highlight the necessity for nations to prioritize environmental issues, putting aside any prejudice or selfish tendencies, giving away our only and last chance to manage and solve together the environmental crisis we are currently facing, and to build a very much needed harmony between nature and human activity.

For all of this, I express my gratitude to the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Portugal and the International Department of the Communist Party of China for the opportunity to take part in the mentioned fieldtrips and to attend this forum which will surely bring about positive contributions and results towards a shared vision of a more sustainable, righteous, and prosperous future for our international community.

Thank you.

China in Sight Global Insight Forum 2023

Chinese Modernization and High-quality Belt and Road Cooperation

Shenzhen

1st of December 2023