BEIJING, CHINA — China says its development strategy is focused on achieving full modernisation by the middle of this century through long-term planning, technological advancement and improvements in people’s livelihoods.
Chinese scholar Lu Keli of Renmin University of China says the country’s development path is guided by long-term national goals established by the Communist Party of China.
Mr Lu explained that China is currently working towards achieving basic modernisation by 2035, before advancing towards the goal of becoming a prosperous, strong and modern country by around 2050.
He said the strategy places emphasis on sustained economic development, scientific and technological innovation, cultural advancement and improving the quality of life of Chinese citizens.
Mr Lu noted that China’s modernisation process has been implemented over several decades, with development priorities adjusted as the country’s economy and society have changed.
He explained that long-term planning enables government institutions, businesses and communities to work towards common national objectives while maintaining continuity in major development programmes.
Technology and innovation are expected to play an increasingly important role as China moves towards its 2035 and mid-century targets.
Mr Lu said the country is also seeking to ensure that economic development is accompanied by improvements in education, infrastructure, public services and living standards.
For African countries, China’s development experience provides an example of how long-term national planning can be linked with clear development priorities and consistent implementation.
Mr Lu maintained that countries need development strategies that reflect their own circumstances rather than simply adopting models developed elsewhere.
He added that aligning national objectives with investment, infrastructure, skills development and technological progress can help countries sustain development over longer periods.
China’s modernisation programme remains central to the country’s economic and social policy as it works towards its 2035 milestone and longer-term 2050 ambitions.