by Mustafa Kuleli
General Secretary of Press Council of Turkey, Writer, Turkey
Returning to China for the Belt and Road Journalists Forum 2024, I was eager to see how my initial impressions would deepen and evolve. This time, the forum not only took us through the bustling urban landscapes but also offered a rare glimpse into the rural heart of China—a side of the country that often remains unseen by the casual observer.
On my first day in Chongqing, I encountered a video at an exhibition that left a lasting impression. It proclaimed, “One candle may not be able to light the room, but one spark can light the world.” This poetic metaphor led me to ponder: Could China be that spark in the global landscape? With its rapid development, strategic initiatives, and cultural richness, China has the potential to illuminate the world in ways both subtle and profound.
This year, our journey extended beyond the skyscrapers and modernity of China’s cities into its rural areas, where we witnessed a different face of the nation. The contrast between the urban sprawl and the serene, natural beauty of the countryside was striking. Wulong’s Fairy Mountain and the majestic Three Natural Bridges left me in awe, not just for their scenic beauty but also for the sense of peace and connection to nature that they evoked.
However, the true revelation was seeing how China is actively transforming its rural areas through a comprehensive rural revitalization policy. This policy, which emphasizes local economic development through rural and agricultural tourism, is a testament to the wisdom behind China’s approach to improving the quality of life and well-being of its citizens. By fostering local industries and encouraging sustainable tourism, China is breathing new life into its rural regions, offering a model of development that could inspire other nations.
One of the most impactful moments of my visit was observing how Targeted Poverty Alleviation has restructured rural governance in China. As Deng Xiaoping aptly put it, “Poverty is not socialism.” This statement resonated deeply as I saw firsthand the tangible results of China’s commitment to eradicating extreme poverty. What we witnessed in these rural areas provided a glimpse into the meaning of “Socialism with Chinese characteristics”—a blend of ideology and pragmatism that is reshaping the lives of millions.
Yet, what was most beautiful about this experience was not just the landscapes or the policies but the people of China themselves. Everywhere we went, we were greeted with warm smiles and a genuine sense of hospitality. The real people of China—ordinary citizens going about their daily lives—offered a perspective that is often missing in the Western media’s portrayal of the country. This firsthand experience is invaluable in dispelling misconceptions and countering the often one-dimensional narratives that dominate global discourse.
Focusing on China’s practice, it becomes clear that the country’s march towards socialism is a complex and contested journey. Nothing can be taken for granted, and China’s path will inevitably face challenges and scrutiny. However, thanks to China’s opening policy, we now have a clearer view of the route this emerging superpower is taking. The world is watching as China charts its course, and those who believe in socialism, particularly in the West, have a duty to understand China on its own terms.
Understanding China requires us to move beyond the Western-mediated images presented to us. It demands that we appreciate the unique conditions and challenges China faces while also acknowledging our own shortcomings. Only by doing so can we offer advice and criticism that are constructive and respectful, rather than patronizing or ignorant.
As I prepare to leave China once again, I do so with a deeper understanding and a broader perspective. The world is indeed bigger than what some Western media shows. There are entirely different lives and cultures that we have not yet seen, and these societies have much to offer—not just to their own people, but to the world at large. My time in China has reminded me that there is always more to learn, more to understand, and more to appreciate about this complex and rapidly changing world.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.