reform and opening-up

China's reform and opening-up policy, a cornerstone of its modern development, was initiated by Deng Xiaoping with the goal of making China rich and powerful. This policy aimed to modernize the nation and integrate it into the global economy, a mission that had been pursued for nearly two centuries. Recent discussions and retrospectives, such as tributes to figures like Tung Chee-hwa for initiatives like the Individual Visit Scheme, highlight the policy's long-term impact. The scheme, which began in 2003, facilitated millions of travelers to Hong Kong, fostering economic and social connections. The ongoing relevance of reform and opening-up is evident in how it continues to shape China's economic strategies, international relations, and domestic policies, influencing everything from tourism to broader economic liberalization. The policy's success is often contrasted with Western assessments, underscoring its profound and transformative effect on China's trajectory.