Think tanks should play a bigger role in global exchanges

Thanks to historical factors and political requirements, Western think tanks have established many mechanisms and platforms to expand their influence across the global landscape. No wonder they hold the power to set the topics of discussions and establish international rules and regulations.

Therefore, to promote the development of new think tanks with Chinese characteristics, it is necessary to develop new concepts, new thinking and new strategies through comprehensive and scientific analysis of the international situation. This will provide theoretical support for building a new international pattern, and enhance China's strength in international exchanges and discourses.

There is also a need to shape the think tanks in a way that they take an active part in important regional and global discussions.

The purpose of global discussions and discourses is to promote mutual understanding and learning among societies. After all, all the achievements of human society are the result of mutual exchanges and learning, and the evolution and integration of different civilizations. So, think tanks should use their cultural and political attributes to undertake the mission of promoting mutual learning among societies on an equal footing.

As for the new think tanks, they ought to carry forward the broad and profound virtues of Chinese civilization, so the world can understand China better. The new think tanks must also study and learn from other civilizations and cultures, and develop an open, inclusive and peaceful mentality to earn the respect of other countries and peoples.

The world has entered a turbulent era marked by imbalanced development, rising anti-globalization, unilateralism and protectionism, and frequent "black swan" events. This means human society is facing serious, unprecedented challenges.

Amid all this, the remarkable achievements China has made since launching reform and opening-up have opened up new paths and created new opportunities for those countries that wish to boost their development and maintain their independence.

China can further extend its influence and steer international discourse in the right direction if the new think tanks with Chinese characteristics exhibit professionalism, establish cooperation mechanisms with internationally renowned think tanks, cooperate on global research, take part in international think tanks' dialogues, disseminate core socialist values and promote public diplomacy based on mutual learning.

The Chinese think tanks should take measures to enhance their competitiveness and international influence. They also need to coordinate with their international counterparts, exploring ways to help improve the global governance system and promote the global governance concept of extensive consultation.

The author is director of the Institute of Law of the Tianjin Academy of Social Sciences.

The view don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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