China's path to modernization inspires the world: FM

China's path to modernization is an important source of inspiration for the world as it is not based on war, colonization, or plundering, Foreign Minister Qing Gang said at a press conference on Tuesday during the first session of the 14th National People's Congress.

"Achieving modernization for a country with more than 1.4 billion people will be an unprecedented feat in human history, and one of profound global significance in itself," he said.

Chinese modernization offers solutions to many challenges facing human development and busts the myth that modernization equals Westernization, he added. "China's success proves that every country has the right and ability to choose its own path and to hold its future firmly in its own hands."

Qin said China's modernization has five key features: independence, putting people first, peaceful development, openness and inclusiveness, and working hard in unity.

"Modernization should not serve the interests of only a few countries or individuals. It should not make the rich richer and the poor poorer. Nor should it lead to cultural impoverishment, moral degradation, or disorder," he said. "People around the world should all enjoy the rights to seek development as equals and pursue happiness."

Chinese modernization is not pursued through war, colonization, or plundering. It is dedicated to peace, cooperation and mutual benefit, and is committed to harmony between humanity and nature. "It is a new path different from Western modernization," he said.

"China's success proves that acting in disunity like a heap of loose sand will get us nowhere, and that only by striving in unity can we pool strength," Qin added.