China’s ‘The People First’ Approach: A Model for Pakistan’s Progress
As a Pakistani politician, I had the unique privilege of leading a recent delegation on a visit to China, providing me with firsthand insights into the remarkable developments that have unfolded within the country over the years. While our visit encompassed various aspects of China’s governance, one particular facet that left a profound impression was the unwavering emphasis on “The People First.” This focal point, central to Xi Jinping’s leadership, is prominently featured in the fourth volume of his book, “The Governance of China.” This very concept, which places the welfare and well-being of the people at its core, resonates deeply with the values and manifesto of the Pakistan People’s Party. It encapsulates a principle that we hold dear and see as an essential component of effective governance.
In a speech delivered on May 22, 2020, President Xi Jinping conveyed a powerful message, stating, “Any member of any state organ, no matter how high a position one holds, should keep firmly in mind that our republic is the People’s Republic of China, and that we must always put the people first, always serve the people wholeheartedly, and always work hard for the people’s interests and happiness.” These words encapsulate not only the guiding philosophy of the Communist Party of China under Xi’s leadership but, more fundamentally, the essence of good governance. At its core, this philosophy signifies a commitment to place the well-being and interests of the people at the forefront of decision-making and policy formulation.
President Xi recognizes the pivotal role played by the people in shaping the history and destiny of a nation. He acknowledges the Chinese people’s creative, enterprising, and indomitable spirit as the driving force behind China’s rapid development. The rich tapestry of Chinese history, from ancient philosophers to modern inventors, is a testament to the immense potential and industriousness of its people. President Xi’s message underscores the importance of nurturing this potential, harnessing the spirit of endeavor, and fostering unity and dreams within the Chinese populace.
China’s success story is an embodiment of this spirit of unity and the commitment to shared dreams. The ability of diverse ethnic groups in China to unite in the face of adversity and external challenges is nothing short of commendable. This unity has played a pivotal role in propelling the nation toward its extraordinary success.
During our delegation’s visit to China, we bore witness not only to the tangible results of progress but also to the intangible sense of unity and collective purpose among the Chinese people. The breathtaking modernization and development projects that we had the privilege to observe were a testament to the government’s unwavering commitment to “The People First.” It was evident that this principle was not mere rhetoric but a guiding philosophy that permeated every level of society.
As members of Pakistan’s various Political Parties, we departed from our visit to China deeply inspired by the success of China’s development model. We appreciate the paramount importance of fostering creativity, endeavor, unity, and shared dreams among our own people. Just as President Xi has emphasized, the unity and shared dreams of a nation are foundational to its progress. We can derive invaluable lessons from China’s experiences in these areas and apply them to our own country’s development.
Furthermore, in his speech on September 17, 2020, President Xi Jinping spotlighted the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasizing that making people’s lives and health a top priority was of utmost importance. China’s rapid and coordinated response to the pandemic, combined with the resumption of economic activities, served as a testament to the government’s resolute commitment to safeguarding the well-being of its citizens. This approach resonates deeply with the Pakistan People’s Party’s commitment to social justice and the welfare of the people.
In addition, President Xi’s call to strengthen Party organizations and grassroots-level governance holds particular relevance for the Pakistan People’s Party’s mission. We appreciate the significance of robust grassroots organizations and effective governance in realizing our objectives. By drawing inspiration from China’s efforts to enhance grassroots governance, we can elevate our endeavors in rural revitalization and contribute to social stability.
Moreover, President Xi Jinping’s call to involve the people in the decision-making process through the solicitation of opinions and suggestions represents a valuable lesson in effective governance. In the context of Pakistan, where a multitude of diverse voices and opinions exist, such an approach can play a pivotal role in ensuring that government policies genuinely reflect the needs and aspirations of the people. By actively seeking public input, we can fortify the connection between the government and the governed, fostering a stronger sense of collective ownership.
In light of President Xi’s unwavering emphasis on “The People First” as a cornerstone of China’s governance model, we find a powerful parallel to the challenges facing Pakistan today. Just as China’s success is deeply rooted in this principle, Pakistan can embark on a transformative journey by adopting “People First” as our guiding slogan in every sphere of governance. Our nation faces multifaceted problems, ranging from economic disparities to political divisions, which can be effectively addressed by collectively prioritizing the welfare, needs, and aspirations of our common people. Aligning our policies and decisions with this principle paves the way for building a more equitable, prosperous, and united Pakistan, akin to what we witnessed in our recent visit to China where “The People First” was not merely a slogan but a guiding philosophy that propelled progress.
In conclusion, President Xi Jinping’s book, “The Governance of China” Volume IV, offers valuable insights into the principles and practices of governance, with “The People First” principle as its focal point. Our recent visit to China not only provided an opportunity to witness these principles in action but also reinforced the importance of aligning our vision and values with these principles to better serve our people and construct a stronger, more prosperous Pakistan. The journey toward achieving our goals may be fraught with challenges, but, as President Xi eloquently stated, “Glory comes from adversity.” With a united spirit and a commitment to placing “The People First,” we can surmount these challenges and forge a brighter future for all.
As we continue our political journey in Pakistan, we remain steadfast in our commitment to placing “The People First,” as exemplified by President Xi in China. We firmly believe that this commitment will bring us closer to realizing the dreams of a more just, prosperous, and united nation, where the welfare and well-being of the people are the guiding principles of governance.
