Former Slovenian President Danilo Turk highlighted China’s transformative achievements over the past 75 years, emphasizing its role as a global leader in economic development, climate change mitigation, and international diplomacy. He praised the Belt and Road Initiative and the strengthening relationship between Slovenia and China, advocating for ongoing cooperation to address global challenges.
In an interview with China Daily, Danilo Turk, the former president of Slovenia, underscored the substantial achievements of China over the past 75 years, characterizing the nation as a transformative force on the global stage, both economically and diplomatically. He remarked on the significant role China has played in tackling global challenges, particularly in relation to climate change and international peacekeeping efforts. Turk noted that the establishment of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 signified the conclusion of a century marked by humiliation and initiated a remarkable transformation. He emphasized that over the decades, China has emerged as one of the world’s foremost powers, significantly influencing global economic and technological advancements. According to Turk, China’s remarkable progress has fundamentally altered global dynamics, establishing it as a vital player in international affairs. He categorized this evolution as a “unique historical success,’’ which has enabled China to contribute constructively to resolving pivotal global issues, including enhancing international peace and combatting climate change. Having witnessed China’s growing involvement in the United Nations since the 1970s, Turk praised the country’s responsible engagement in global matters, particularly its shift from being a cautious participant in the Group of 77 to attaining a position of global leadership. He described how China’s economic expansion evolved the nation from being the “factory of the world” to a technological and financial powerhouse, thereby impacting the global economy and promoting multilateral cooperation and diplomacy. Turk referenced China’s essential support during the 2008 global financial crisis, which helped stabilize the world economy. He spoke positively of the Belt and Road Initiative, describing it as a “new development opportunity for large parts of the world.” Reflecting on the relationship between Slovenia and China, Turk appreciated the mutually beneficial cooperation that both countries share, particularly through Slovenia’s membership in the European Union. He affirmed the potential for deepening trade relations and emphasized the absence of major political disputes, highlighting their exemplary cooperation within the UN framework during Slovenia’s tenure as a nonpermanent member of the UN Security Council. To fortify bilateral relations, China recently announced visa-free entry for Slovenian citizens. Turk expressed his optimism regarding future collaboration on global challenges, stressing, “Together, we (can) help promote progressive international causes.” With increasing global challenges such as climate change, health crises, and economic instability, Turk underscored China’s pivotal role in addressing these issues. He commended Chinese efforts in developing affordable technological solutions to lessen global warming and encouraged global solidarity in harnessing these innovations. Furthermore, Turk advocated for enhanced multilateral cooperation within the World Health Organization to tackle health crises more effectively and labeled China as a “bulwark of stability” amidst ongoing geopolitical conflicts, particularly in the Middle East and Ukraine. Should these tensions escalate and cause economic disruptions, Turk posited that the world would look to China for stabilization. Turk was in Beijing to attend the China International Friendship Conference, commemorating the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC). He acknowledged the organization’s vital role in fostering international cooperation and understanding, urging it to expand partnerships and explore new cooperative areas related to climate change and peace initiatives. Turk concluded with a call to the CPAFFC, stating, “Continue your good work, observe the changes in the world, and offer new themes for cooperation with an ever-growing number of partners.”
The article discusses China’s significant contributions to global affairs since its establishment in 1949, highlighting its economic growth, technological advancements, and diplomatic efforts. Former Slovenian President Danilo Turk praises China’s impact on tackling international challenges and emphasizes the importance of collaboration between Slovenia and China for mutual benefits. He draws attention to China’s evolving role in international organizations and its potential to stabilize the global economy amidst geopolitical tensions. The discussion also covers the Belt and Road Initiative, which signifies China’s commitment to international development and infrastructure improvements, and the role of the CPAFFC in promoting global understanding.
In conclusion, Danilo Turk’s reflections on China’s evolution over the past 75 years present a compelling narrative of a nation that has transformed into a global leader, addressing key challenges like climate change and fostering international cooperation. As Slovenia and China strengthen their partnership, there is significant potential for collaborative efforts to tackle global challenges and enhance stability in an increasingly complex world.
Original Source: global.chinadaily.com.cn
