In Light of the Statement of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC)

In Light of the Statement of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC)

The Relationship between the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) and the "National Renaissance through Chinese Modernization,"

Prepared by: Nabaz Mustafa

The Communiqué of the Fourth Plenary Session of the Communist Party of China sets a roadmap for the "National Renaissance through Chinese Modernization," which is not limited to China's borders. It skillfully integrates internal goals of development and progress with an external strategy aimed at shaping the global order based on global governance. The Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) is the key diplomatic and cultural tool China uses to present "Chinese Modernization" to the world, not as a model to be imposed, but as an alternative choice that enriches civilizational diversity and contributes to building a shared future for humanity.

The relationship is one of mutual reinforcement; Chinese Modernization provides the Global Civilization Initiative with its content and practical credibility as a successful model, while the GCI provides the diplomatic and cultural framework that allows "National Renaissance" to be understood, accepted, and to contribute to the wider global system in a peaceful and influential manner. On the other hand, it is a symbiotic relationship, where each supports the other to achieve China's grand objectives.

First: Chinese Modernization as the Cornerstone of the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI)

"Chinese Modernization" is the core of the "Great Renaissanceof the Chinese Nation." The Communiqué describes this modernization as a "new journey of marching towards realizing the goals of struggle by the centenary of the founding of the People's Republic of China." The principles that define Chinese Modernization, reflected in the goals of the "15th Five-Year Plan" (2026-2030), are themselves essential elements that contribute to shaping the concept of the Global Civilization Initiative and emphasize the following points:

• Holistic Human Modernization (People-Centered): The Communiqué emphasizes "advancing the all-round development of the individual and the steady progress of all people towards common prosperity" and "driving the wheel of realizing common prosperity for all people with steady steps." Chinese Modernization, by focusing on common prosperity and improving the people's livelihood, presents a people-centered development model. It is not just economic growth, but a comprehensive improvement in the quality of life for people to be presented as a global goal. It also clarifies that renaissanceis not just material power, but an improvement in the lives of individuals, which strengthens the legitimacy and acceptance of the Chinese model globally.

• Material and Spiritual Modernization (Material and Spiritual): The Communiqué calls for "revitalizing and developing socialist culture" and "igniting the vitality of cultural innovation and creativity for the entire nation," alongside the "leap in economic, scientific, and technological power." The Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) aims to promote cultural dialogue and exchange. Chinese Modernization focuses not only on material progress (economy and technology) but also on the civilizational and spiritual elevation of society. This aspect reinforces the GCI's idea that civilization is not just material advancement, but also spiritual and cultural richness. China presents itself as a model that balances material and spiritual progress, challenging the Western perception of modernization which often separates these two aspects.

• Modernization in Harmony with Nature (Green Development): The Communiqué calls for "accelerating the pace of comprehensive green transformation of economic and social development and building a beautiful China," and "establishing and implementing the idea that a good natural environment is genuine treasure." The Global Civilization Initiative (GCI) promotes a sustainable future. Chinese Modernization, with its focus on green development and carbon neutrality, offers a practical solution to global environmental challenges. This aspect of Chinese Modernization aligns perfectly with the urgent global need for sustainable development, making China a key partner in addressing environmental issues and enhancing China's standing as a leader in global environmental governance, demonstrating that its renaissance is not at the expense of the environment, but part of its solutions.

• Peaceful Modernization (Peace and Cooperation): The Communiqué refers to "deeply advancing major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics" and "driving the building of a community of shared future for mankind." The GCI emphasizes peace, cooperation, and mutual understanding among civilizations. Chinese Modernization, as presented, is a peaceful path to renaissance that does not seek hegemony but cooperation. It refutes claims that China's rise is a threat, presenting it instead as an opportunity for global cooperation, which is vital for the world's acceptance of China's renaissance.

Second: How Does the Global Civilization Initiative Reinforce National Renaissance Through Chinese Modernization?

The relationship is not one-sided. While Chinese Modernization enriches the Global Civilization Initiative with its content and values, the GCI, in turn, provides the necessary framework and platform for the success of "National Renaissance" on the international stage, including:

• Building a Favorable International Environment for Renaissance: The Communiqué calls for "expanding high-level opening up to the outside world, and creating a new pattern of cooperation and shared wins." The GCI, alongside the GDI and GSI, aims to shape a more multipolar, inclusive, and stable global system. This peaceful and cooperative international environment is essential for China to continue its modernization path without significant obstacles, and to ensure its renaissance is accepted. Modernization cannot thrive in a turbulent or hostile world. Thus, the GCI creates a diplomatic and cultural space to present China's renaissance positively, reducing resistance and opening doors for the economic and cultural cooperation necessary for the continuation of modernization.

• Strengthening China's "Discourse Power": The Communiqué stresses "strengthening the capacity to spread Chinese civilization and expand its influence" and "mastering the work related to media, ideology, and culture." The Global Civilization Initiative is a central tool for strengthening China's "discourse power" in global affairs. Through this initiative, China does not just present its renaissance as a model; it also seeks to shape the global narrative around concepts such as modernization, development, security, and governance. This allows it to challenge dominant Western narratives and present its own perspective. The GCI enables China to explain and justify "Chinese Modernization" to the world in a language of civilizational understanding and cooperation, making it more acceptable.

• Attracting Partners and Alliances: The Communiqué refers to "jointly building the Belt and Road with high quality" and "deeply advancing major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics." The Global Civilization Initiative provides a cultural and value framework for attracting other countries that feel marginalized by the Western system or are looking for alternatives. By emphasizing respect for the diversity of civilizations and rejecting their conflict, China can build stronger alliances and relationships with countries that share this vision, which enhances its influence and facilitates the achievement of its renaissance goals. The GCI establishes a broader base of international support for China's renaissance, as these countries see China as a partner that respects their cultural specificity, not a power seeking to impose a single model.