In a lively debate on CGTN's Talking China, experts tackled common misconceptions about China as a developing country within the Global South. Liu Zhiqin, a senior fellow at the Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies at Renmin University, stressed that regional imbalances are very real. He noted, "If you go to the western part of China, or even the central or southwestern areas, you'll see big differences" compared to the bustling first-tier cities.
Liu emphasized that looking solely at overall GDP figures doesn’t capture the full picture. Instead, factors like a shared history of resisting colonialism and imperialism also define its role in the Global South.
Meanwhile, Li Cheng, director at the Center on Contemporary China and the World at the University of Hong Kong, pointed out that China is now the world’s second largest economy with a steadily rising GDP per capita. He stated, "I disagree with the perception that China is very poor," and urged that empathy and mutual understanding are essential in today’s interconnected world.
This debate sparks an important conversation: How should we measure development in a country with such diverse economic landscapes? It’s a reminder for everyone—from students and professionals to curious travelers—to look beyond simple numbers and embrace the complex story of progress. 🚀🌍
Reference(s):
Expert: China is still a developing country and part of Global South
cgtn.com
