"I flew for 27 hours and changed three flights to Shanghai this time, with the aim of achieving better mutual understanding between China and the world. This is important for the Chinese people and the world," said Moeketsi Majoro, former Prime Minister of Lesotho, at the World Conference on Chinese Studies and the Shanghai Forum held on the morning of November 24, 2023.

According to Maggioro, Lesotho is located in southeastern Africa, and its territory is completely surrounded by South Africa, earning it the nickname "China". It is also the world's largest country among nations. Lesotho's economy is very underdeveloped, with a national poverty rate of up to 50%, of which at least 40% face food and clothing problems.

Previously, Lesotho's food policy had an impact on agricultural productivity due to historical legacy issues. In 2020, then Chancellor of the Exchequer, Majuro, was sworn in as Prime Minister and began a bold reform, such as reforming the land distribution system, vigorously increasing the production enthusiasm of farmers, and implementing mechanized farming.

Ma Qiaoluo believes that in the past few decades, China's modernization path has focused on development, and the process of rapid economic growth has also accumulated a lot of experience. This has not only benefited 1.4 billion Chinese people, but also promoted global connectivity and multilateralism. "Nowadays, China is willing to share these experiences, which are very helpful and inspiring for other countries."

Former Prime Minister of Lesotho, Mukaichi Machoro. Photography: Fang Zhuoran

Ma Qiaoluo believes that it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of China, from the ancient wisdom reflected in Confucius and Confucianism, to China's significant rise as an economic powerhouse and technological innovator, and now that China has become a major participant in international affairs.

There are over 50000 archaeological sites in China, which use tangible evidence to tell the profound historical roots of China and the evolution of its ideas, governance, and artistic expressions. These changes have shaped China for thousands of years.

Ma Qiaoluo stated that China has achieved astonishing economic growth in the past forty years, becoming the world's second largest economy. If another evaluation criterion, namely purchasing power, is adopted, China is already the world's largest economy. The technological strength represented by leading technology companies and departments in the fields of digital, artificial intelligence, solar energy, and electric vehicles further proves China's key contribution to global innovation transformation.

"The world is undergoing major changes, and a new order is emerging. In this process, China has the responsibility to play a greater leadership role in world affairs." Macholo said that the "the Belt and Road" initiative covers no less than 155 countries, three quarters of the world's population, and more than half of the world's output, which also proves China's recognition and acceptance of its emerging global role.

"This conference is a starting point that can dispel those trivial doubts. Those doubts mainly focus on our future and the role that major countries will play for the benefit of everyone." Majuro believes that the significance of the World Congress of Chinese Studies is not only to engage in cross-cultural exchange and interaction with ideological leaders gathered in Shanghai, but also to promote collaborative research and establish valuable academic partnerships, Cultivate a profound spirit of mutual learning and deepen our understanding of modern civilization.