Kathmandu— In 2014, during the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping addressed concerns that improved air quality was merely a temporary effect of hosting the summit, stating his hope that the clear skies – dubbed “APEC blue” – would endure. More than a decade later, this pledge has materialized through consistent action, demonstrated by a 69.8 percent reduction in Beijing’s average PM2.5 concentration between 2013 and 2025, earning the city recognition from the United Nations Environment Programme as achieving a ‘Beijing Miracle.’ This commitment to backing words with deeds extends beyond environmental concerns, shaping China's approach to global trade, development aid, and international cooperation.

A Legacy of Action

Xi Jinping has consistently emphasized the importance of fulfilling promises, drawing on ancient Chinese philosophy. He once quoted from “The Guanzi,” stating, “He who has credibility connects the world,” highlighting the necessity of aligning words with actions. This principle is evident in initiatives like the China International Import Expo (CIIE), launched in 2018, which Xi pledged would be a successful annual event – and it has grown into a major global trade platform. Similarly, commitments to opening up China’s economy have been followed by measures such as special customs operations at the Hainan Free Trade Port and expanded visa-free transit policies.

Revitalizing Infrastructure in Africa

China's dedication to long-term partnerships is exemplified by its involvement with the Tanzania-Zambia railway, a landmark project dating back over half a century. In 2013, Xi paid tribute to Chinese engineers who lost their lives during the railway’s construction and pledged continued collaboration. This commitment culminated in a memorandum of understanding signed in September 2024 for a revitalization project, with groundbreaking occurring in Zambia in November 2025. The upgraded railway is projected to increase freight capacity to at least 2.4 million tons annually and reduce shipping times significantly. Solomon Mwakasanga, a retired railway worker, attested to China’s reliability, stating, “China helped us build the railway in the past and is now helping us make it better and more modern. China has always kept its word.”

Global Cooperation and Sustainable Development

Beyond infrastructure projects, China has focused on delivering tangible benefits across Africa through initiatives like zero-tariff treatment for all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to China, as well as programs such as Luban Workshops and Juncao technology. This commitment extends to global challenges; when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, Xi pledged international cooperation and positioned China as a provider of vaccines as a global public good, working with developing nations on local production. Furthermore, China has committed to peaking carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060, investing heavily in renewable energy and clean energy technologies.

International Recognition of Chinese Commitment

China’s consistent delivery on its promises has garnered international recognition. UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell noted, “China has a reputation of doing what it says it's going to do,” praising China’s leadership in technological advancement and support for developing countries in the Global South. This positive assessment underscores Xi Jinping’s broader philosophy: as he stated, “We Chinese people attach great importance to taking action to keep promises. We will do whatever it takes to honor our commitment.”

China continues to pursue these commitments through ongoing projects and initiatives, solidifying its role as a reliable partner on the global stage.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.