Op-Ed Contributors

Promote dialogue of civilizations

By Yu Sui (China Daily)
Updated: 2010-11-09 07:51

Historically the rise of new powers has brought changes to the world. However, in today's globalized world where science and technology develop rapidly and mutual interdependence among countries is unprecedented, a country cannot expect ascendancy through aggression and expansion, like countries in the past.

Over the past two decades since the end of the Cold War, the rise of some emerging countries as a group has been achieved in the context of accelerated multipolarization after the collapse of the Soviet Union.

The force of the US has been weakened after the Cold War, but it still remains the only superpower in the world. Regional issues under the influence of the US still remain the main factor behind complicated international situations, and Washington-involved power-to-power relations still determine to a large extent the world security environment. But that does not mean the US is powerful enough to control the whole world.

Global governance should not be dependent on a single country, or on only a few, it is inseparable from the self-governance of every country. It should not be used as an excuse for some countries to intervene in other countries' internal affairs. Cooperation between the UN and some regional organizations and relevant regional powers should become the main platform to push for better global or regional governance. In the process, relations between some emerging powers and traditional powers should be properly handled and the rights and obligations between them balanced.

Ethnic identity, religious beliefs, cultural traditions and social systems should not be obstacles in the way of global governance. Multilateralism is desperately needed to facilitate this goal at a time when nuclear proliferation, terrorism, the global financial crisis, climate change, the deteriorating environment and natural disasters are seriously threatening mankind.

The world's ongoing efforts for global governance proceed at a time when peace and development remain the two major international themes. Currently, peace and development remain irreversible and competition and cooperation coexist side by side.

Under these circumstances, emerging countries should adhere to a peaceful approach, give full play to their innovative spirit and persist in consultation and cooperation in a bid to attain sustainable development.

Civilizational dialogue will possibly help emerging countries and traditional big powers, and help developed and developing countries seek convergent points of interest.

As a responsible member of the group of emerging powers, China has always been active in advocating civilizational dialogue and pushed for its implementation. While winning extensive respect from the international community, the achievements China has made in the process of its peaceful development have also invited some misgivings.

Holding higher the banner of peace, development, and cooperation, China should consistently match its actions with its words and continue working hard to enhance trust from the international community, although it will be a long and arduous process to dispel talk of the "China threat".

The author is a researcher with the Research Center of Contemporary World.

(China Daily 11/09/2010 page8)