China's high-standard opening up: A new gateway for shared progress

Editor's note: Nik Mohammad Nikmal, a special commentator for CGTN, serves as editor-in-chief at the Kabul Times. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

Over the past several decades, China has emerged as a central force in global economic, technological and social transformation. This evolution is not merely a story of statistics and numbers, but a reflection of a philosophy built on people's well-being, sustainable growth and shared prosperity. The concept of Chinese modernization draws inspiration from the nation's unique realities, historical experience and national aspirations, forming a model that has become a source of inspiration for many countries around the world.

Chinese modernization differs fundamentally from the Western model. It is a development path with Chinese characteristics. It holds that modernization must not only mean industrial or technological advancement, but also social justice, environmental balance and people-centered prosperity. A key element of this approach is China's commitment to green technology and carbon reduction.

A vivid example of this vision in action is the Tianjin Port, the world's first zero-carbon port powered by artificial intelligence. Every aspect of operation, from container transfer to internal logistics, is automated through intelligent systems, demonstrating efficiency, environmental responsibility and technological innovation. Projects like this show that Chinese modernization is not confined to theory; it is a living reality that sets new global standards for sustainability and innovation.

Complementing this modernization drive is China's commitment to high-standard opening up, which has become a cornerstone of its development strategy. In an era of global economic uncertainty, China's openness is both deliberate and transformative – not limited to market access but representing a comprehensive institutional reform. Over the past three decades, China's openness index has risen sharply, reflecting its efforts to align domestic systems with global standards and to create a transparent, stable and predictable business environment.

In practice, this means that pilot free trade zones have become laboratories of reform, where the negative list for foreign investment has been cut from 190 items in 2013 to just 27, with all restrictions in manufacturing removed. China has also extended zero-tariff treatment to all least-developed countries with diplomatic relations, including 33 African nations, demonstrating that its openness benefits others as much as itself.

At the same time, China has pursued financial liberalization, easing cross-border capital flows and promoting the international use of the renminbi, while maintaining a balance between openness and security through improved regulatory and risk-prevention mechanisms. This unique combination of transparency and control gives China's development long-term stability.

The philosophy behind high-standard opening up is also the driving force of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a framework designed to expand connectivity, trade and investment across Asia, Africa and Europe. It promotes not only the flow of goods and capital but also the exchange of knowledge, technology and skills. Platforms such as the China International Import Expo further integrate developing economies into global markets, enabling them to share the dividends of China's growth.

In the face of global protectionism and geopolitical headwinds, China's steadfast commitment to opening up serves as an anchor of stability. Its vast market of 1.4 billion people, including over 400 million in the middle-income group, offers unmatched opportunities for international cooperation. The upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan continues to prioritize this openness, focusing on innovation-driven trade, two-way investment and high-quality BRI cooperation.

China's experience shows that long-term progress is not merely a result of policy or capital. It stems from vision, collaboration and sustained peace. For countries such as Afghanistan, which are now entering new phases of stability and reconstruction, the lesson from China is clear: Genuine development requires both national confidence and regional cooperation. Infrastructure projects, road networks, energy development and agricultural progress in Afghanistan are tangible steps toward that goal.

The shared philosophy of stability and modernization between China and its neighbors opens the door to a new chapter of regional cooperation and mutual prosperity. It is time for Asian nations to move forward together on the basis of mutual trust, shared development and a common destiny.

Chinese modernization represents a model of balanced progress where human welfare, environmental care and economic growth reinforce each other. Its high-standard opening up embodies strategic confidence and a commitment to shared prosperity. This path is not China's alone; it belongs to all nations seeking peace, stability and sustainable growth.

For countries in Asia, including Afghanistan, joining this shared vision means taking part in a new era of cooperation – one that promises not only development but also a collective and enduring hope for the future.

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