Connecting minds: Global experts share insights on modernization and globalization

Source: CGTN

Update: Oct 17, 2025, 10:56 PM

The Mingde Strategic Dialogue 2025 is held in Beijing, China, October 17, 2025. /Dong Chuanxian

Hosted by Renmin University of China (RUC), the Mingde Strategic Dialogue 2025 has convened a batch of distinguished international experts from politics, academia and media across the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, Italy and other countries and regions. The two-day event, held from October 17 to October 18 in Beijing, centered on the theme "Chinese modernization: New drivers of globalization," has served as a platform for ideas to be exchanged, stories to be shared, and insights to be sparked.

Romano Prodi attends the Mingde Strategic Dialogue 2025 in Beijing, China, October 17, 2025. /Dong Chuanxian

Romano Prodi, former prime minister of Italy and former president of the European Commission, addressed the opening ceremony. In his remarks, Prodi shared his perspectives on the challenges and prospects of today's global landscape. According to him, the world is entering a new era where globalization and counter-globalization are intertwined. Yet, globalization cannot be sustained by any single country thus more effective methods shall be adopted, he said. He emphasized the need to strengthen and expand China-EU cooperation in areas such as politics and trade. Prodi also recognized China's role on the global stage as a significant leader in modernization as well as technological advancement and a responsible advocate for better global governance.

Romano Prodi, former prime minister of Italy and former president of the European Commission, speaks with CGTN during an exclusive interview in Beijing, China, October 17, 2025. /CGTN

In an exclusive interview with CGTN, Prodi reflected on his personal experiences and past visits to China. He further shared his observations on the development of Italy, Europe as well as the ongoing tariff whirl. In his view, the tariff disputes could set the world economy back and no one would be the winner.

Over the past four decades, China has shown the world its dedication, innovation and motivation in the pursuit of modernization. It has not only yielded remarkable achievements across all sectors domestically, but also shared its experiences with the world, further injecting new momentum into global development. At this peculiar time when the international community is facing multi-layered crises, China continues to stand ready to contribute its wisdom and strength to building a more connected and resilient future of the world.