How does a nation leap from tech follower to global innovator while preserving its cultural soul? Former Belgian Prime Minister Yves Leterme, who's visited China over 50 times in two decades, sat down with CGTN to unpack this modern paradox. 🧩
"China’s transformation is like watching a time-lapse of the future," Leterme marveled, highlighting how mobile payments, AI integration, and high-speed rail now coexist with ancient tea ceremonies and calligraphy. ☕️🖌️
He emphasized the country’s unique ability to "combine social progress with identity" – a tightrope walk many Western nations struggle with. While digitalization disrupts traditions worldwide, Leterme noted China’s knack for deploying cutting-edge tech without erasing its heritage. 🎎💻
From AI-powered museums preserving dynastic art to eco-friendly smart cities honoring feng shui principles, the ex-PM sees lessons here: "It’s not just about growth, but growing wisely." 🌱🏯
Could this fusion model inspire other developing economies? Leterme thinks so – proving you don’t need to choose between TikTok trends and Tang poetry. 📱📜
Reference(s):
cgtn.com