By: Wang Zhiwei
Introduction
On March 15, 2023, at a high-level dialogue between the Communist Party of China and world political parties, President Xi Jinping introduced the “Global Civilization Initiative” to the world for the first time. The initiative was summarized into four core advocacies: “advocating respect for the diversity of world civilizations,” “advocating the promotion of shared human values,” “advocating the importance of civilizational inheritance and innovation,” and “advocating the strengthening of international cultural exchanges and cooperation.” This initiative provides a Chinese approach to fostering global civilizational exchanges and advancing human progress, which has received widespread attention and high praise from the international community.
As early as the Pre-Qin period, the concept of “Universal harmony under heaven” was introduced in the Book of Rites. This idea reflects Confucius’ vision for social order and harmonious human relations. Confucius believed that society should be based on equality, with resources distributed fairly, and where the elderly, children, and those in need are cared for. In such a society, trust, mutual assistance, and a lack of conflict prevail. This ideal society, known as “Universal harmony under heaven,” remains a cherished aspiration in Chinese traditional thought.
In today’s turbulent world, frequent global crises such as natural disasters and public health emergencies, along with political and military conflicts like the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the Israel-Palestine conflict, have created an increasingly complex and uncertain global landscape. In this context, the pursuit of peace and development remains a common goal of the global community. Exploring how to achieve world peace and development has thus become a critical issue for humanity.
Both President Xi Jinping’s “Global Civilization Initiative” and the ancient Chinese concept of “Universal harmony under heaven (天下大同)” are grounded in China’s philosophy of cooperation, mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. These ideas offer valuable insights into building a more peaceful, stable, and prosperous world and a shared future for humanity.
The Historical Resonance of Chinese Wisdom
The “Global Civilization Initiative” emphasizes dialogue, exchange, and mutual learning among different civilizations, aiming to construct a harmonious, stable, and prosperous world. This is closely aligned with the ancient Chinese concept of “Universal harmony under heaven,” which also emphasizes the harmonious coexistence of humans with nature and among people, pursuing unity of hearts and minds.
The ecological values promoted by the “Global Civilization Initiative” align with the principle of harmony between humans and nature found in “Universal harmony under heaven,” advocating for the integration of humanity and nature. Similarly, the principles of mutual respect, equality, reciprocity, and learning from one another are in harmony with “Universal harmony under heaven,” which advocates harmonious coexistence and unity in diversity. The call for inter-civilizational learning and joint development in the initiative mirrors the “Universal harmony under heaven” notion of inclusivity and mutual enrichment. Moreover, the concept of a shared future for humanity in the “Global Civilization Initiative” echoes the idea in “Universal harmony under heaven” that different civilizations should engage in equal dialogue, seeking common ground while respecting differences.
The alignment between the “Global Civilization Initiative” and the ancient concept of “Universal harmony under heaven” represents a dialogue between ancient Eastern wisdom and contemporary challenges. It underscores the continuity of Chinese cultural thought and presents a Chinese solution to building a global community with a shared future.
Chinese Wisdom as a New Force for World Peace and Development
Chinese wisdom has long played a unique role in promoting world peace and development. Whether through the ancient concept of “Universal harmony under heaven” or the contemporary “Global Civilization Initiative,” the Chinese people have consistently upheld the principle of mutual respect and equality in international relations, regardless of size, strength, or wealth. China has continuously advocated for dialogue and understanding between different civilizations, fostering global harmony and progress. Platforms like the Conference on Dialogue of Asian Civilizations and the Boao Forum for Asia provide opportunities for countries to exchange ideas, share experiences, and build consensus, helping to eliminate misunderstandings and enhance trust.
In the sphere of global governance, Chinese wisdom has offered distinct solutions and frameworks. China actively supports the construction of an open, inclusive, balanced, and win-win global governance system, respecting the development paths and models chosen by different nations. Through economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and international assistance, China fosters shared development, injecting new energy into the harmonious coexistence of global civilizations. China emphasizes resolving international disputes through dialogue and advocates for cooperation to address global challenges.
China’s Role in Economic Globalization
Chinese wisdom has played a crucial role in advancing economic globalization. Across economics, politics, and diplomacy, China has adhered to the principles of openness, cooperation, and win-win outcomes, actively promoting international cooperation and engaging in global affairs. China’s proposals, such as the “Community with a Shared Future for Mankind” and the “Global Civilization Initiative,” offer forward-looking frameworks for global governance. Through initiatives like the “Belt and Road” and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), China has promoted infrastructure development and economic cooperation, helping developing and underdeveloped nations achieve self-reliant development. Chinese wisdom provides an important theoretical foundation for the realization of economic globalization, injecting new vitality into global economic growth.
Conclusion
From ancient times to the present, Chinese traditional thought has consistently upheld values of harmony and mutual respect. President Xi Jinping’s “Global Civilization Initiative” builds on this tradition, putting these ideals into practice. By promoting civilizational exchanges and mutual learning, the initiative fosters cooperation and win-win outcomes among all nations, constructing a pluralistic and symbiotic international society. This approach offers a practical and feasible pathway for addressing contemporary global challenges.
Chinese wisdom, with its deep historical roots and unique cultural characteristics, provides valuable theoretical support for promoting world peace and development, as well as constructing a community with a shared future for humanity. However, the implementation of the “Global Civilization Initiative” requires the collective efforts and active participation of all nations. By upholding the principles of openness, inclusivity, cooperation, and mutual benefit, while respecting the diversity of civilizations, nations can find shared values and goals within global diversity. Working together to address global challenges, we can build a harmonious, stable, and prosperous world, ensuring lasting peace and development for human society.
The Writer is a PhD in International Communication, School of International Journalism and Communication, Beijing Foreign Studies University, China
