How and why have China's economy and national strength been growing at such a rapid pace over the past decades?

As evidenced in the writings of many travelers who had the opportunity to visit the country over the past millennium, China was at the global forefront for hundreds of years in terms of wealth creation and distribution, cultural and technological advancement, and infrastructure development.

The myth of a backward and miserable China spread throughout the world due to a relatively short period of crisis the country faced, which coincided with the Industrial Revolution that propelled several Western countries to the top of the world in terms of production and trade, followed by immense social, economic and unfortunately also military progress accompanied by colonial conquests and transcontinental wars.

The turnaround that projected a rising China began after the end of World War II, under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, which is celebrating the 100th anniversary of its founding this year.

The achievements of the CPC are undeniable, even though it has made some wrong choices on way to leading the country to prosperity, a developing trend that has continued over the last 40-odd years. That China has lifted hundreds of millions of people out of extreme poverty in itself is a monumental achievement.

China's international image as a responsible global power has grown as it has been producing more goods and services for people in the country as well as the rest of the world. China has also made remarkable progress in the fields of education, culture, science and technology with repercussions on the complex nature of international relations.

China's achievements can be attributed to the deep cultural roots of an ingenious, disciplined and immensely productive people, but also to its leadership that guides the country's overall development with undeniable competence and ability.

Still, China cannot and should not ignore the frictions with other countries, especially those that claim to represent democracy, criticize the CPC's governance principle, and accuse China of human rights violations and strengthening its armed forces to subjugate other, weaker countries.

For the good of humanity it is crucial that high levels of understanding and respect for national concerns and mutual points of view be accorded due priority, for that would allow concrete action to be taken to maintain the international balance and meet the needs of people, and preserve the diverse cultures and traditions around the world.

The Chinese economy cannot be isolated from the world economy, and countries must learn to work together for the common benefit of the world. As for the international community, it should not ignore the importance of the principles of global governance.

A tradition that dates back thousands of years and a powerful political leadership continue to inspire and guide China, which deserves the prestigious place it holds in the assembly of nations.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

The author is chairman of the International Joint Initiatives Belgium.