IN a rapidly changing world, the pursuit of peace and stability remains a top priority in the international arena. In this quest, China has emerged as a prominent player, presenting a unique model of development that stands in stark contrast to the historical legacies of colonialism. Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, China has embarked on a development path that prioritizes innovation, technological advancement, economic reform and poverty alleviation. President Xi has often emphasized the “Chinese Dream,” focusing on national rejuvenation, improved livelihood and sustainable development.
China’s commitment to non-hegemony and non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries has been a cornerstone of its modernization strategy. The country’s “Peaceful Development” policy underscores the importance of cooperation and peaceful coexistence in international relations, aiming to foster mutual trust and common prosperity among nations. Unlike historical colonial powers, China’s primary objective is not to exert control or exploit resources from other nations, but rather to encourage interdependence and mutual benefit through economic partnerships and infrastructure development projects, exemplified by the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI seeks to enhance connectivity across continents, promoting trade and development while respecting the sovereignty of participating countries.
As a Pakistani writer and global peace activist, I firmly believe that China’s modernization approach, free from hegemonic ambitions, holds the potential to rehabilitate and emancipate nations like Pakistan from the lingering impacts of colonialism. Let us explore how China’s development model offers a promising alternative to colonization and imperialism, fostering peace and stability on a global scale.
In post-colonial nations like Pakistan, the consequences of the colonial development model are deeply ingrained in society and the economy. The legacy of colonization has left these countries grappling with underdevelopment, inequality and political instability. In contrast, China’s development model offers a pathway toward genuine progress and rehabilitation. At the core of China’s development model is a strong emphasis on human capital and local empowerment. The country invests in education, skills training and technology transfer to uplift and empowers communities in developing nations, promoting sustainable growth from the grassroots level. This stands in stark contrast to colonial strategies that exploited resources and labour without investing in human capital, perpetuating dependence and underdevelopment.
Moreover, China’s development model encourages South-South cooperation, promoting collaboration among developing nations and breaking away from the traditional North-South dichotomy associated with colonialism. By fostering solidarity and shared objectives, China contributes to a more balanced and multipolar world order, promoting a harmonious co-existence among diverse nations.
China’s emphasis on economic diplomacy is another crucial aspect of its modernization strategy. Economic development and cooperation are integral to promoting stability and reducing the likelihood of conflicts. Engaging in trade, investment and infrastructure projects, China fosters an environment of economic interdependence that incentivizes nations to seek peaceful resolutions to disputes. Notably, Chinese investment in post-colonial nations, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), have led to significant infrastructure development, boosting trade and connectivity in the region. This investment has the potential to uplift local communities and create job opportunities contributing to long-term stability and progress.
Beyond Pakistan, China’s investment has extended to other post-colonial regions, particularly in Africa, where the focus has been on fostering human development and improving livelihood. For instance, in Ethiopia, the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, built with Chinese expertise and funding, has revolutionized transportation, allowing for faster and more efficient movement of goods and people. This project has spurred economic growth and social development, transforming the lives of millions by providing them with better access to markets, education and healthcare.
In addition to infrastructure development, China’s investment has also played a significant role in uplifting healthcare systems in various post-colonial nations. For instance, China’s medical teams have been dispatched to African countries to provide healthcare services and training, demonstrating the country’s commitment to enhancing healthcare access and improving public health standards. Such initiatives have contributed to a more harmonious understanding between China and the nations it partners with, fostering a sense of mutual respect and cooperation.
Furthermore, China has been actively involved in sustainable development projects across post-colonial nations, including renewable energy initiatives. By supporting the development of solar and wind energy projects, China has contributed to the reduction of carbon emissions and the preservation of the environment. These efforts align with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, promoting a more sustainable and greener future for all.
China’s investment in post-colonial nations has not been driven by a desire for hegemony or control, but rather by a genuine commitment to cooperation and mutual benefit. These endeavors are firmly grounded in respecting national sovereignty and promoting local empowerment which creates a fertile ground for peace and stability. The uplifting of human lives, improvement of dignity and social development achieved through these partnerships are testament to the transformative potential of China’s development model.
President Xi Jinping has consistently reiterated China’s commitment to non-interference in the internal affairs of other nations and the importance of respecting national sovereignty. He firmly advocates against imposing China’s values or political system on other countries, emphasizing instead the need for a diverse range of governance models that respect each nation’s unique history, culture and circumstances.
By upholding national sovereignty, China’s approach fosters peaceful co-existence among diverse nations, reducing the likelihood of conflicts arising from external intervention or attempts to impose foreign ideologies. This approach has particularly resonated with post-colonial nations, like Pakistan, which have endured the consequences of external interference in their internal affairs.
President Xi Jinping’s advocacy for respecting national sovereignty and promoting non-interference aligns with China’s broader approach to global affairs. The country’s emphasis on multilateralism, dialogue and win-win cooperation underscores its commitment to a peaceful and stable world order, free from the shadows of past-colonialism and hegemony. As China continues to develop and engage with the international community, President Xi Jinping’s leadership plays a crucial role in advancing these principles and fostering an environment of harmony and prosperity for all nations.
In conclusion, China’s modernization strategy represents a distinct alternative to historical colonial models and imperialism. As a Pakistani writer, I firmly believe that China’s “Peaceful Development” policy, with its commitment to non-hegemony and non-interference, offers a path to rehabilitation and emancipation for post-colonial nations. By embracing principles of mutual respect, cooperation and peaceful co-existence, nations can collaborate to build a future free from the shadows of colonization, promoting global peace, stability and prosperity.
—The writer is a Pakistani Climate Youth Leader, UN SDGs Advocate and an expert on Youth Development in the Global South.
Email: qaisernawab098@gmail.com
