Since 1992, I have been to China a dozen times. Every time I visited, I was amazed by the tremendous changes in this country.

In my opinion, China's development achievements have drawn the attention of the world. This is because China has not copied the development experience or models of other countries but has embarked on a path of development in keeping with its own national conditions. The Chinese government's excellent organizational ability and the Chinese people's readiness to honour their promises have advanced the process of modernization with Chinese characteristics. More importantly, China's open-mindedness and inclusiveness have won a growing number of friends.

The idea of building a community with a shared future for mankind proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping has not only inherited the essence of the fine traditional Chinese culture but also conformed to the trend of our times. Today, all nations are interdependent in unprecedented ways. The world has become a global village, with intertwined interests. Only through shared development and prosperity can we achieve a win-win outcome. Thus, all countries shall collaborate, pursue shared growth through joint consultation and seek common ground while putting aside their differences. In this way, we can create a brighter future for human society as a whole.

I have been to Africa many times to study Belt and Road projects. I have witnessed how China has supported Africa's development and improved the living standards of local people, based on shared interests and mutual benefit. Cooperation is sincere and friendly, with no political strings attached. More importantly, China not only “gives fish" to Africa, but also teaches the African people how to fish for themselves. Many ordinary people in African countries have mastered professional skills in the Belt and Road projects and have truly shaken off poverty.