As China's annual Two Sessions unfold in Beijing,  international faculty and students at Sun Yat-sen University shared their personal takeaways—from tech innovation to global cooperation—offering a glimpse of how the world sees China's development path.

HEENA RATHORE, Pakistan

A PhD student at the School of Foreign Languages, She has lived in China for a decade. "I closely followed discussions on 'new quality productive forces' and people's wellbeing," she says. "China's push in AI, green energy, and digital economy not only drives high‑quality growth but also opens up cross‑disciplinary opportunities for us. What touches me most is the warmth behind the policies—better education, healthcare, and social security. Here I feel both security and hope."

Anno Bernhard DEDERICHS, Germany

Associate Professor at the School of Foreign Languages, Dederichs found reassurance in Foreign Minister Wang Yi's remarks. "In turbulent times, China remains a bedrock and anchor of stability—committed to peace, upholding the UN Charter's purposes and principles, defending international order, and promoting harmonious cooperation," he says.

PHAM THUY ANH, Vietnam

A freshman at the School of Journalism and Communication, Pham was drawn to the Belt and Road Initiative. "As a Vietnamese student, I see more chances to become a bridge between our countries," she says. "In class, we use Chinese AI tools like text‑to‑image and video editing—they make learning so efficient. And the green campuses, clean air, and shared EVs are part of daily life. The Two Sessions are not just China's event; they shape our future too."

Linda Matar, Lebanon

Associate Professor at the School of International Studies, Matar highlights this year's strategic focus on "new quality productive forces." "While technological innovation has long been a national goal, the 2026 sessions placed greater emphasis on scaling breakthroughs in emerging frontiers like embodied AI, brain-computer interfaces, 6G, and quantum technology," she explains.  "Guided by China's the people-centered philosophy of development, innovation is directed for the people, for good, and for all."

Mohamad Zreik, Lebanon

A postdoctoral researcher at the Institute of International and Area Studies who was recently named among the world's top 2% scientists, he has followed the Two Sessions for years. "This time I focused on innovation and foreign policy," he notes. "China's lead in AI and green energy is clear, and its commitment to multilateralism offers a responsible model for global governance."

From a seasoned observer to a curious newcomer and a sharp researcher, these voices see a China that is dynamic, green, and globally engaged—a picture they carry with them into the future.