China's governance model offers lessons for the world

By comparison, poverty alleviation in Brazil often comes in the form of conditional cash transfers. While such programs can improve consumption and provide temporary relief, they are not connected to a broader development plan. Seeing China's tailored, multi-sectoral approach made it clear why its overall efficiency and long-term impact far surpassed that of Brazil.

As a Brazilian, I felt especially proud when President Xi chose the 19th G20 Summit in Brazil in 2024 to deliver two important speeches. In one, he spoke on the fight against poverty and hunger, sharing China's successful experiences in supporting the Global South. In the other, he addressed the need to reform global governance, advocating for multilateralism and the strengthening of a rules-based international order.

Through it all, I came to deeply appreciate the holistic nature of China's governance model. Poverty alleviation, economic growth, social participation, international diplomacy, and citizen empowerment were all interconnected.

As an observer, reader, and contributor, I came to see that this system — rooted in China's long history and adapted to modern challenges — offers valuable lessons for the world.

This is why I believe that translations of President Xi's books will help foreigners better understand China's policies and promote international cooperation.

By the end of my 10 years, I realize that governance is more than just laws, policies, or speeches. It is the delicate weaving together of strategy and human experience — a village lifted out of poverty, a citizen's voice heard, a foreigner's suggestion considered — all forming a living, evolving tapestry of collective progress.

Written by Rafael Henrique Zerbetto, a Brazilian foreign languages expert at the Asia-Pacific Center of the China International Communications Group and a board member of the Brazilian Citizens Council of Beijing. He was one of the recipients of the Chinese Government Friendship Award in 2025.