By Gricelda Melo
President of the Colegio de Periodistas, Panama
The experience of going beyond the American continent marks a watershed moment in my professional and personal life. The journey itself was an expedition—a four-day trip of over 30 hours’ flights, transfers, and delays—that culminated in my arrival in Beijing, the vibrant capital of the People’s Republic of China. This first encounter with the Eurasian continent has undoubtedly provided a valuable opportunity to observe the world and reflect on the future of Latin America.
What first struck me was the deep integration of technology into every facet of daily life in Eurasia. This was evident in public transport, modern infrastructure, digitized hospitals, security systems, and automated public services—technologies that are only just beginning to be introduced in Latin American countries.
Walking through the streets of Beijing and Nanchang, I was deeply impressed by the urban cleanliness and order. When I asked how such pristine spaces are maintained, the answer was simple yet profound: meticulous organization, clear schedules, and citizens who are out cleaning the streets late at night. This high degree of social coordination reflects a culture based on collective discipline and respect for public space.
The friendliness and helpfulness of Chinese people were equally impressive. Despite the language barrier—which, as a professional, I recognize as an issue our education systems must address—staff used automatic translation tools to communicate effectively. This demonstrated how technology can build bridges of understanding between different cultures and languages.
One of the most significant moments of the trip was an experience at a public hospital in China. I received a full medical consultation in under 30 minutes, in a process that was efficient, orderly, and highly digitized. After an initial consultation, laboratory tests, and a CT scan, the results were delivered to the doctor before I even made my way downstairs. This is in stark contrast to Latin America, where similar appointments and tests can often take weeks or even months.
China’s urban security system was also enlightening. I learned that, aided by a city-wide network of surveillance cameras, police can intervene within 10 minutes of a theft. Crucially, punishment must carry certainty. Only by rigorously enforcing the law and ensuring no one is above it can we establish public services and social structures that truly benefit the people.
The nation’s rapid industrial development was equally remarkable. I visited a pharmaceutical factory where a production line that once required 200 employees now operates efficiently with fewer than 30, thanks to a fully automated system. China has achieved similar technological leaps in the automotive, food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical sectors. Particularly noteworthy is the country’s implementation of zonal rainwater harvesting, demonstrating a national commitment to environmental consciousness and the protection of natural resources.
Furthermore, China has masterfully integrated tradition with innovation. In the arts and culture sectors, theaters and museums combine the preservation of historical roots with the adoption of new technologies, creating an exemplary balance between traditional heritage and modern technology.
Faced with this reality, one cannot help but ask: How has China made such remarkable progress in benefiting its people? The answer, repeatedly emphasized by local residents and journalists, is clear: the imperative to advance the fight against corruption and enforce the principle that all who break the law will be held accountable. While no social system is perfect, a steadfast commitment to this direction makes it possible to utilize resources efficiently and ensure that technology serves the people.
Developing countries, particularly those in Latin America, should take note of and learn from these experiences. International cooperation, technological innovation, and a profound transformation of civic culture are the three pillars for Latin America’s path toward sustainable, equitable, and modern development.
Technology should not be a privilege for the few, but a universal tool for the benefit of all. The real challenge lies in how to eliminate excessive costs and government corruption, in order to apply science and technology transparently, ensuring a better life for every citizen.
*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.