Illustration: Liu Xiangya/GT

In today's world, where economic uncertainty is on the rise globally, China is actively engaging in international cooperation by rolling out practical projects. These efforts are flexible and tailored, aligning with the specific needs of local economies, and are thus referred to by some as "small but beautiful" projects. They are making a significant contribution to helping various countries, especially developing ones, navigate the complexities of the global economic landscape.

The Xinhua News Agency reported on Wednesday that an agreement for 14 such projects was signed between China and Myanmar to continue supporting Myanmar's development across a range of sectors. These projects span various fields, tailored to address the unique needs of the local community in areas such as agriculture, environmental protection, science and technology, culture, education and disaster prevention. Since 2018, more than 130 such projects have been carried out in Myanmar, according to Xinhua. 

This clearly shows the growing popularity of these "small but beautiful" projects. However, it by no means suggests that the significance of large-scale projects is diminishing. In sectors such as infrastructure, major connectivity projects remain a powerful force driving regional economic and trade development. Complementing this, "small but beautiful" projects are emerging as a new highlight in China's international development cooperation. These projects are making steady progress under multilateral cooperation frameworks such as the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, showcasing their growing importance in regional and international collaboration.

The international economy is facing multiple challenges, including a slowdown in growth, persistent inflationary pressures, and ongoing weakness in international trade. A UN report released in May noted that the global economy is at a critical juncture filled with uncertainties, with escalating trade tensions and rising policy uncertainty exerting dual pressures.

Against this backdrop, many developing countries, in particular, are facing acute challenges. "Small but beautiful" projects enable China's international cooperation to respond more flexibly and precisely to these challenges. This approach enhances the efficiency of international cooperation, meeting the diverse needs of local economies more effectively.

Recently, an increasing number of "small but beautiful" projects have been gaining momentum in China's international cooperation efforts. These targeted, specific initiatives are delivering tangible economic benefits, improving livelihoods, and earning growing recognition from the international community.

Spanning areas such as public health, green development, education, and infrastructure, these projects often focus on practical, high-impact needs - ranging from building bridges and digging wells to installing streetlights.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun noted in July that "small but beautiful" projects like the Luban Workshops and the juncao technology have led households on a road to prosperity.

For instance, the Lancang-Mekong Sweet Spring Project has brought local villagers safe drinking water in Southeast Asian countries such as Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar, helping nearly 10,000 residents.

In September 2023, China announced the launch of the "Africa Solar Belt" project, leveraging the strengths of its photovoltaic industry to help address electricity shortages in relevant African countries and support their efforts toward green and low-carbon development, according to Xinhua.

These projects are being recognized globally. A commentary published in US media outlet The Hill in July said that China's pivot to "small but beautiful" projects is proving to be consequential. In 2024 alone, China signed 340 new Belt and Road deals worth $121.8 billion, a 31 percent jump from the prior year. These included smart logistics hubs in Central Asia, artificial intelligence-powered customs systems in East Africa and green hydrogen pilot zones in the Middle East.

The article stated that "the question for the West is whether it can offer an equally compelling alternative - one that is rooted not just in promises, but in presence."

China has numerous examples of supporting global sustainable development through "small but beautiful" projects. These initiatives represent a growing focus of China's external cooperation on more detailed and targeted efforts. The goal isn't to ignite a competition in "small but beautiful" collaboration globally. Indeed, China has long advocated for open cooperation. If developed countries can pursue such cooperation, it would be of great significance for the world. 

The author is a reporter with the Global Times. bizopinion@globaltimes.com.cn