China is actively establishing a network of 33 Luban workshops across 29 countries to enhance its relationships with nations in the Global South and expand its soft power. This initiative, which began in Thailand in 2016, focuses on vocational training across various fields. To date, over 10,000 students have graduated with degrees, and more than 22,000 individuals have received vocational training through these workshops. The Ethiopian Luban Workshop has gained recognition as a high-quality skills training center for Africa, with Wallelgn Yonas Akele, a teacher, reporting an enrollment of 300 students in Addis Ababa. Additionally, the Luban Egypt Centre for Vocational Training, co-founded by Chinese and Egyptian institutions, opened in late 2020. Peng Binbai from the Ministry of Education has highlighted the advantages of vocational education in promoting foreign exchanges, while Zhao Zhiqun emphasized its critical role in economic development and in building China's diplomatic image.
Political party leaders and officials from African countries have expressed confidence in China's reform measures, believing they will yield global benefits. Lu Kang, vice-minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, noted that China is keen on sharing governance experiences with African nations. Obert Mpofu, secretary-general of Zimbabwe's ruling ZANU PF party, praised China's rapid development through its reform policies. Marvin Fanny, vice-president of United Seychelles, pointed out the potential for China to assist Seychelles in achieving sustainable development and advancing the blue economy. Khalid Boudali, presiding officer of the African Union Economic Social and Cultural Council, expressed optimism that China will meet its goals due to its leadership and political stability. Maged Refaat Aboulmagd, an ambassador member of the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs, commended China's serious approach to high-tech technology and high-quality innovation in its reforms.
China's commitment to modernization and comprehensive reform, as outlined during the third plenum of the Communist Party's Central Committee, could positively impact Southeast Asia. These reforms may lead to increased opportunities for regional trade and collaboration, improve economic stability, and benefit Malaysia's development. The transformative potential of China's reform agenda aligns with the broader goals of regional stability and prosperity.