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Features Correspondent
The history of modern China is inspirational because it has given not just practical ways of liberation, nation-building and dependable model of self-governance, but also some inspirational philosophies that will be useful for countries such as Zimbabwe.
Over the past several decades, African countries have looked up to China for philosophical and political thought.
Among the most inspirational leaders, historically, are Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai, Deng Xaoping.
Chairman Mao, as he is fondly known, is regarded as the father of liberation and an astute military thinker and genius.
As African countries fought their liberation wars, Mao’s tactics were useful, as he counselled a communion between military, political leaders and the people.
It was Mao that gave us the philosophy that the military and the people should have a relationship like that of fish and water. Indeed, during the execution of the guerilla-type liberation war, this truism was fully realised.
In between, his teaching about discipline, selflessness, love for common people (peasants and workers), justice and self-determination or “standing up” against foreign powers.
Zhou Enlai is notable for his internationalist outlook and the role he played in reaching to the non-aligned world and to Africa. His philosophy was powerful, comprising of two broad approaches in the “Five Principles” and “The Eight Principles”.
The former principles were crafted with Africa and the Arab world in mind.
Zhou pledged that, China supported African and Arab people’s liberation in struggles against imperialism and new colonialism; supported a policy of peace, neutrality and non-alignment; supported unity and solidarity; peaceful resolution of conflict; and respect and upholding of sovereignty against encroachment and interference.
During his visit to Ghana in 1964 as premier Zhou announced China’s “Eight Principles for Economic Aid”, which could be said to be influential up to date.
These entail the following: mutual benefit, no conditions attached; help recipient nation develop its economy; to help the recipient country with project(s) that need less capital and quick returns; high quality aid at world market price; technology transfer; and equal treatment for Chinese experts abroad working on projects.
China is still implementing its aid programmes in this letter and spirit in Africa, attesting to the influence of the former leader.
On the other hand, Deng Xaioping is widely respected for his philosophy and role in opening up and reforming China.
It has become a model for African countries in transition.
As explicated in his meetings with African leaders such as Julius Nyerere, Robert Mugabe, Joachim Chissano and Eduardo Dos Santos, Deng’s philosophy with respect to African countries was that African countries should pursue models that are suitable for them.
On aggregate, Chinese leaders — also including Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao — have visited Africa no less than a dozen times in the past 40 years to exchange views and inspire the continent.
Enter President Xi
Current President Xi Jinping will enter the annals of history as one of the best products of Chinese independence and gifts to the world.
As a consummate thinker, his philosophies are changing the world and guiding leaders especially in the developing world.
President Xi’s signature “Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics” is a broad-based philosophy, which, according to a commentary by Xinhua, “represents the latest achievement in adapting Marxism to the Chinese context and encapsulates the practical experience and collective wisdom of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the people”.
It is no accident that, the philosophy has now been adopted by the Communist Party of China for both domestic and foreign policies.
The CPC announced the formation of the thought for the first time at its 19th National Congress in October 2017 and wrote the thought into the Party’s Constitution as a new guide to action upon conclusion of the congress.
The philosophy is anchored on 14 points which include, among others, ensuring Party leadership over all work; commitment to a people-centred approach; continuing to comprehensively deepen reform; adopting a new vision for development; promoting the building of a community with a shared future for humanity; etc.
As a thinker, President Xi’s work are contained in the compendia titled “The Governance of China”.
The books, containing some of his most important speeches and writings, serve as a useful guide to modern China going into the future.
President Xi tackles such important topics as the concept of “Socialism with Chinese Characteristics”, the Chinese Dream, peaceful development, cooperation with developing countries, multilateral relations, combating corruption, and so on. Many students of politics are looking up to this thinker of our time, who no doubt will impact China and the world in a profound way.
Reflecting on the value and highlights of Chinese independence and its significance to the world, the country’s modern thinking espoused by its leaders is a great gift.
Peter Tanyanyiwa
Online Reporter