A conference that has become an important platform for the world to understand China's modernization, reform and opening-up kicked off in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, on Tuesday.

At the 2024 Understanding China Conference, which runs through Wednesday, Huang Kunming, Party secretary of Guangdong, said that an open Guangdong province will create myriad opportunities for the world and that the province welcomes investors and business representatives from everywhere.

Mulatu Teshome, former president of Ethiopia, said China has made remarkable achievements in economic development over the last four decades. It has had a profound impact on the world, he said, adding that China's prosperity provides many opportunities for other developing countries.

Through the Belt and Road Initiative, roads, ports and other infrastructure have been built in the countries involved, and China has established long term partnerships that benefit the economic development of others, he said.

Wolfgang Schussel, former chancellor of Austria, said China's development experience has come to the world, and Shahid Abbasi, former prime minister of Pakistan, said China's rapid growth has contributed to promoting global economic growth and inclusive development. China helped around 800 million people rise out of poverty in previous decades, he said.

The conference theme — "Carry Through the Reform to the End: Chinese Modernization and New Opportunities for World Development" — is a focal point. Its co-hosts are the China Institute for Innovation and Development Strategy, the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs and the Guangdong provincial government.

The annual event is in its 8th round this year.

In addition to opening ceremonies and keynote speeches, this year's event includes guest dialogues, six parallel workshops, 14 thematic forums and a series of supporting activities.