High-speed electric multiple unit (EMU) trains for the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway stop at Halim Station in Jakarta, Indonesia, Oct 2, 2023. [Photo/Xinhua]

The word civilization is derived from the Latin word civis, meaning citizen. In modern history, the word civilization was first used in France in the 18th century, drawing philosophical linkages to ancient Greeks and Romans.

The study of Western civilization today reveals embedded flaws and a sense of superiority. The superiority complex gathered strength after the West-led Industrial Revolution. Arrogant and ruthless, Western countries embarked on a colonization spree, enslaving humans and looting resources that finally culminated with World War II. The second attempt at colonization started with the building of new instruments of colonization in the name of global liberal order and continued till the conclusion of the Cold War, which provided them with another opportunity to strengthen their hegemony and dominance. They invented theories like the End of History and Clash of Civilizations to portray Western culture and liberal ideology as the ultimate reality of humanity.

Against these backdrops, China launched the Global Civilization Initiative. The GCI promotes the philosophy of harmony in diversity and peaceful and cooperative coexistence.

In contrast to Western superiority complex, harmony is deeply rooted in Chinese civilization. As Confucius said, a gentleman aims at harmony and not at uniformity.

The genesis of GCI is built on the belief that the world is home to numerous cultures, philosophies, economic development patterns, environment, diplomacy, and people with diverse beliefs, habits, attitudes, and countries with different geographies, resources and nationalities. People live within different geographical boundaries, enjoy unique identities, and strive to flourish.

In the same way, each country is a mini world in itself and carries characteristics of the world. However, the people within a country harmonize their diversity and strive for development, peace, and secure living. It is a well-recognized fact that a better-harmonized country ensures a pleasant and secure living experience.

President Xi Jinping echoed this sentiment while elaborating on the initiative at the Communist Party of China in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting in March 2023. The president's speech indicated that the GCI had many distinguishing characteristics.

First, the GCI recognizes that we belong to diverse cultures, believe in different systems, have distinctive histories, and are in different stages of development. We should adhere to respecting diversity.

Second, it promotes the idea that no one is superior to another; being human, we are all equal. We should strive to achieve our common aspirations for peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, which are common values of humanity.

Third, the GCI emphasizes that the world should uphold the value of learning and not let pride and prejudice hinder learning. We should not hesitate to recognize the diverse contributions of civilizations to human modernization. There should be no ambiguity that, historically, each civilization contributed to modernizing human civilization. Therefore, no one should become a victim of the illusion that only one particular civilization contributed to human civilization. Hence, the prime goal should be learning from each other, contributing to humanity's well-being, and meeting common people's expectations.

Moreover, learning is a two-way affair: learn and impart learning to others. China is cognizant that learning from others has helped it grow. Therefore, China is now responsible for imparting learning as a major economic and technological power.

Fourth, the GCI negates the notion of the End of History. It forwards the idea, rather than belief, that human civilization always strives to modernize and look for better. Only the drivers and actors change, not the human aspiration to modernize. China is now a major driver and actor of a new wave of modernization.

Fifth, it recognizes that we must respect and appreciate other cultures, such as their elders and writers.

Sixth, the GCI adheres to the ancient Chinese philosophy of sharing prosperity. The Belt and Road Initiative is the most prominent example on this front, involving 152 member countries and 32 international organizations. China has invested almost $1 trillion on numerous projects. The BRI has contributed to bringing millions of people out of the poverty trap.

Seventh, China promotes common, comprehensive, coordinated and sustainable security.

Eighth, the GCI negates the theory of the Clash of Civilizations, a byproduct of the hegemonic mindset and attitude. The initiative clearly spells out that China does not subscribe to this mentality. China believes in peaceful and cooperative living with other civilizations, as well as the equality of humanity and all civilizations.

However, there is one important aspect China must not overlook. Certain civilizations have sub-civilizations, or there are more competitors to claim certain civilizations. For example, under Islamic civilization, we can find numerous sub-civilizations like Arab, Iranian, Indus, Egyptian, Turkish, etc. On the other hand, Pakistan and India claim the Indus civilization. Thus, China should promote a dialogue at the sub-civilization level, which will help minimize differences and pave the way for dialogue among civilizations.

It can be inferred that the GCI prioritizes dialogue over confrontation, win-win cooperation over a zero-sum game, and advocates for a level playing field. The initiative gives due importance to principles of equity and equality without any prejudices. It aims to explore establishing networks of inter-civilization dialogue to enhance mutual learning and find new ways of cooperation. China is ready to share its experience, prosperity and cultural products to create a harmonious world. The country believes that every civilization has contributed to the development and modernization of the world. Thus, every civilization has something to celebrate.

The author is CEO of AIERD, adviser of Global Development Initiative Forum, SDGs Secretariate, Parliament of Pakistan and recipient of Pride of Pakistan Award.