Kathmandu— According to a recent Pew Research Center survey, China has surpassed the United States in global favorability ratings across 25 out of 36 countries surveyed. This shift is particularly notable in Canada, where China's rating rose to 44 percent compared to the US’s 33 percent, despite being one of America's closest allies.

China's Domestic Achievements

Over four decades, China has lifted nearly 800 million people out of poverty and built the world's largest high-speed rail network. It transformed itself into a manufacturing powerhouse and became a leader in electric vehicles, renewable energy, and digital services. These achievements reflect a consistent approach to long-term planning that translates into tangible improvements for citizens' daily lives.

Global Perception of Reliability

In South Africa, 72 percent described China as reliable, up from 47 percent in 2023. This perception is bolstered by visible infrastructure projects like the China-Laos Railway and Indonesia's Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway. Wang Lei, a professor at Beijing Normal University, noted that China’s stable development and improving living standards have become its most persuasive national calling card.

Expanding Technological Cooperation

China is extending its influence into emerging technologies by announcing 5,000 AI training opportunities for developing countries over the next five years. This move addresses concerns about technological expertise and governance in the developing world, broadening China's partnerships beyond traditional infrastructure projects.

Cultural Exchange and Visibility

China’s wider opening to foreign visitors has allowed millions of smaller encounters through its 240-hour visa-free transit policy. Cultural expressions like the animated film Ne Zha 2 and UNESCO's inscription of the Spring Festival have also contributed to a more modern, creative image of China around the world.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.