PILATE MACHADU
I HAD the privilege of visiting China in 2025 to attend a seminar for heads of key media in the Belt and Road countries, a people-to-people exchange programme organized by the People’s Republic of China.
It was an eye-opener for me and my colleagues from Zimbabwe and other Belt and Road countries.
We were impressed by China’s rapid development, vision, and discipline. During this visit, I was given a copy of “The Governance of China V” written by President Xi Jinping.
In this classic work, President Xi presents a comprehensive vision for China’s future, building on the successes of the past decade.
He outlines his Party’s and government’s achievements, including eradicating absolute poverty, achieving moderate prosperity, and strengthening party leadership.
The book offers a comprehensive overview of China’s development, encompassing its economic growth, diplomatic efforts, scientific and technological advancements, and cultural and social progress.
The book offers valuable insights into what makes the Chinese people successful: meticulous planning, clear objectives, robust implementation, follow-up, and clear communication.
One of the standout features of this book is its emphasis on people-centered development. President Xi stresses that China’s development is for the people, by the people, and with the people. He highlights the government’s efforts to improve the lives of its citizens.
China’s remarkable progress over the past decade is undeniable. Its GDP has grown from RMB 54 billion to RMB 114 trillion, accounting for 18.5 percent of the world economy.
China ranks first in grain output and has ensured food and energy security for 1.4 billion people. Life expectancy increased to 78.2 years, and per capita disposable annual income increased from RMB 16,500 to RMB 35,100.
The country’s manufacturing sector is the largest in the world, as are its foreign exchange reserves. President Xi also underscores China’s commitment to innovation, science, and technology, with nationwide R&D spending rising from RMB 1 trillion to RMB 2.8 trillion.
The book also explores China’s diplomatic efforts, highlighting its major country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. President Xi notes that China has become a major trading partner for over 140 countries and is committed to promoting peace, development, and cooperation.
The government’s robust response to the COVID-19 pandemic has protected the lives of the people and demonstrated China’s responsibility as a major power.
In addition to its economic and diplomatic achievements, China has made significant progress in improving the lives of its citizens.
Over 13 million urban jobs have been created each year in the past 10 years, and 1.04 billion people are covered by basic old age pension schemes and basic medical insurance, providing coverage for 95 percent of the population.
Looking ahead, President Xi outlines China’s plans to build a modern socialist country, promote high-quality development, and create a community with a shared future for humanity.
He emphasizes the importance of upholding socialism with Chinese characteristics and striving for unity to achieve China’s vision for the future. He calls for continued efforts to promote high-quality development, foster new development dynamic and build a community with a shared future for mankind.
One key takeaway from this book is the importance of the Communist Party’s leadership in driving China’s development.
President Xi notes that the Party has dedicated itself to achieving lasting greatness for the Chinese nation and committed itself to the noble cause of peace and development for humanity.
Throughout the book, President Xi’s vision for China’s future is clear: a modern socialist country that is prosperous, strong, and harmonious, with a growing economy, improved living standards, and a commitment to peace and cooperation.
As someone who witnessed China’s development firsthand, I was impressed by the book’s clarity, vision, and ambition.
President Xi’s leadership and vision are evident throughout the book, and his commitment to the Chinese people and the world is inspiring.
“The Governance of China V” is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding China’s development trajectory and its vision for the future.
The book offers valuable insights into China’s governance, economy, culture, and society, providing a comprehensive overview of the country’s achievements and challenges.
Pilate Machadu is the chief executive officer of Jester Media Services Group.