CEBU CITY—China does not export its development model or ideology, it offers unparalleled opportunities to the world, said Consul General of the Chinese Consulate in Cebu, Zhang Zhen in a press briefing and reception, Tuesday (August 5) at Waterfront Hotel Cebu City.
“China’s success in poverty alleviation, national prosperity, and human rights advancement has earned broad recognition and acclaim from the international community. Overall, it's a story of innovation and resilience, inviting everyone to join China's journey toward shared growth!” Consul Zhen said.
Zhen shared China’s economic strong performance and dynamism with its GDP increased from 110 trillion yuan to 120 trillion yuan, then to 130 trillion yuan, and is expected to reach 140 trillion yuan this year. China's contribution to global economic growth has remained around 30 percent over the past few years.
China’s annual growth rate averaged 5.5 percent from 2021 to 2024, which was one of the highest among major economies in the world, Zhen emphasizes the significant economic achievements over the past five years, with the industrial sector output rising 6.4 percent overall, while high-tech manufacturing jumped 9.5 percent and the services sector also accelerated, expanding 5.5 percent with IT and software services surging 11.1 percent, she shared.
Zhen added that despite the challenges faced by China, particularly the US's unilateralism, protectionism, and trade bullying, China has maintained its firm opposition and taken necessary countermeasures for its national interests.
“The first half of the year has been marked by significant efforts to counteract these challenges through multilateral trading system and international justice,” Zhen added.
Consul Zhen reflected on the long-standing friendship between China and the Philippines, noting the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship, mentioning the mutual benefits of cooperation and people-to-people exchanges across various fields and the importance of maintaining an aesthetic and sound bilateral relationship, serving the fundamental interests of both countries.
She highlighted the significance of the 50th anniversary as an occasion to reflect on shared aspirations and history and lists of various commemorative events organized by both countries and institutions, Zhen mentioned events like a friendship day, Chinese Film Festival and a badminton tournament.
“The South China Sea issue is acknowledged as a real challenge, but it is not the entirety of the relationship, what is important is the role of the people in defining, writing, and creating the future of their nations,” she said.
Addressing the South China Sea issue, Zhen said
that tensions were not provoked by China and are not what China desires. She criticized
anti-China forces for using the issue to serve their own interests, adding that
the key to resolving the South China Sea issue is presented as a choice between
cooperation and confrontation, dialogue and conflict.
Zhen called for a commitment to a sound and stable bilateral relationship that serves the well-being of both peoples. She looked forward to more fair and balanced voices in the relationship between China and the Philippines.
“I acknowledge the power of words but I call
for responsible use to build and embrace a shared bright future and I invite questions
and engagement from the audience with emphasis on openness and approachability,”
the Chinese Consul stated. (Photos: MBCNewman)
No comments:
Post a Comment