Opinion: Continuity vs. Flip-flopping in policymaking

China's governance model is deeply rooted in a long-standing tradition that prioritizes long-term planning over short-term gain. This philosophy is exemplified in the country's five-year plans, which view development not as a series of disconnected political cycles, but as successive stages within a broader national trajectory.

The rise of China's high-speed rail network serves as a prime example. Its rapid expansion was not the result of a fleeting political slogan, but of sustained planning, institutional coordination and long-term investment.

By contrast, some Western countries are often beset by partisan rivalry and a recurring impulse to overturn, rather than build upon, the policies of previous administrations.

In a volatile and uncertain world, continuity is more crucial than ever. It provides stability, fosters trust, and lays a solid foundation for long-term development even in the face of global turbulence.

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