The four great inventions of ancient China, papermaking, gunpowder, printing and the compass, are significant Chinese contributions to humanity. They have led to many changes in the world and are considered distinct developments in establishing the identity of Chinese culture. In modern times, we all still benefit from these and many other scientific and technological achievements China has made during its five thousand year history.
Today, China-made EMU train sets are operating in Europe, BYD electric buses are shuttling to and fro in Los Angeles, Huawei mobile phones are increasingly popular across the globe, and the “Lao One” communications satellite, launched by China, is in orbit over Laos. In recent years, China has made successive technological breakthroughs and has developed a series of reliable and innovative hi-tech products. These emit a dazzling light highlighting China’s exchanges and cooperation with other countries.
On November 21, 2015, China collaborated with Laos in launching the “Lao One” communications satellite in Xichang, Sichuan province. The satellite, the first of its kind China has exported to an ASEAN country, now provides Laos with television broadcasts, wireless Internet access and international communications services. “The Lao government firmly believes that the satellite, upon going into operation, will bring new revenue to Laos and make contributions to Laos’ social and economic development,” said Hiem Phommachanh, Loa Minister of Post and Telecommunications, at the in-orbit delivery ceremony of the “Lao One” communications satellite.
After years of exploration in overseas markets, Chinese-built high-speed rail technology has made its presence felt in dozens of countries in Asia, Europe, Africa and the Americas. For importing countries, China has significant advantages over developed countries in terms of its high-speed rail technology design speed and construction costs. In addition, the strong competitiveness of Chinese high-speed rail also lies in both short construction periods and high quality results.
China’s scientific and technological innovations are making life easier for ordinary people in many countries. When the Ankara–Istanbul high-speed railway—built by Chinese companies in partnership with Turkish counterparts—was inaugurated, a citizen of Ankara named Abbas said excitedly, “My parents live in Istanbul. My wife and I visit them every week. It used to take seven hours for us to drive from Ankara to Istanbul. Now, it just takes a little more than three hours to cover the distance by high-speed train. It is extremely convenient!”
China’s cooperation with other countries is not limited to the fields of high-speed rail and satellites, however. China’s innovative agricultural technologies are being promoted in Southeast Asian countries, new energy vehicles have delivered impressive performances in overseas markets, Chinese-made smart phones have won wide industry recognition in many countries, and major PV companies have gained a foothold on the African continent.