A seminar titled “Global Opportunities in Deepening China’s Reform in the New Era” was held on Thursday, July 25, at the China Cultural Center in Abuja, drawing attention to the potential benefits of China’s modernization for Nigeria and the global community.
The event, organized by China Media Group, attracted government officials, foreign policy experts, and students from Nigeria and China.
In his opening remarks, Shen Haixiong, Director-General and Editor-in-Chief of China Media Group emphasized that Chinese modernization, underpinned by comprehensive reforms and an open approach, is poised to explore new horizons.
Shen, who also serves as Deputy Director of the CPC Central Committee Publicity Department, highlighted the importance of adhering to guiding principles such as upholding the Party’s leadership, prioritizing a people-centred approach, and fostering innovative institutional improvements. He noted that these principles reflect deep-rooted Chinese wisdom and experience.
Quoting President Xi Jinping, Shen said, “Reform and opening-up, China’s second revolution if you like, have not only profoundly changed the country but also greatly influenced the whole world.” He asserted that the comprehensive deepening of reform is essential for national rejuvenation and the establishment of a modernized China, which will contribute significantly to global development.
Shen reaffirmed China’s commitment to reform, stating that the nation would not retreat into isolationism or fragmentation. Instead, he expressed China’s intent to remain interconnected with the global community, promoting shared growth and mutual prosperity.
Nigeria’s Minister of Tourism, Lola Ade-John, addressed the audience, advocating for increased investment in local government areas to develop more tourist sites and engage youth as tour guides. She expressed optimism that current government initiatives could attract investors, enhancing the country’s tourism infrastructure and creating job opportunities for young people.
Represented by Narai Patricia, Ade-John noted that Nigeria’s 774 local government areas are rich in unique cultural expressions, from music to dance and traditional masquerades, which can significantly boost the country’s tourism appeal.
Muhammad Sulaiman, President of the China Alumni Association, discussed the competitive nature of globalization, emphasizing its role as a primary lens through which nations assess their economic strategies.
He highlighted the significance of the third plenary session of the Communist Party of China, which aims to address critical issues such as the reform of state-owned enterprises and China’s ongoing commitment to the World Trade Organization.
“This year’s session is poised to set the stage for economic and social reforms that will extend through 2029,” Sulaiman stated, outlining strategic directions that will encompass education, fiscal policy, science, and technology. He emphasized that these reforms are designed not only for internal development but also to enhance global growth and modernize social systems.
Sulaiman urged African nations to capitalize on three essential elements of China’s reform plan: modernization, opening up, and reform itself. He encouraged African countries to draw lessons from China’s transformative experiences since the 1980s, which lifted millions out of poverty and provided a roadmap for overcoming regional challenges.
Other speakers, including Raphael Oni, OkonEmmanuel, and Edi-ma Friday, echoed the call for Nigeria and other nations to explore the opportunities presented by Chinese modernization and reforms.
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