China is not a dark totalitarian country, a state-run daily said Saturday, stressing that "many elements from the developed world are taking root" in the nation.
"China is not the dark totalitarian country that some in the West described it as. Many elements from the developed world are taking root in China," an editorial in the Global Times said.
The country is also facing new problems, it said, adding: "The theory that all problems will be resolved once China adopts Western systems does not make sense."
The editorial appeared following Chinese artist Ai Weiwei's visit to Germany where he has "softened his tone towards the Chinese authorities".
"After regaining his passport from authorities in July, Ai left for Germany.
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"Ai said he was allowed to travel again with almost no restrictions, and he could also go back to China, and that the government told him he is a free person. Ai also said that he would not just criticize the government, but should also offer solutions."
The Voice of America said Ai's words have drawn criticism from Chinese dissidents, who referred to this as the "collapse of an idol".
The editorial said that for a long time, Ai has been labeled by Western media as a maverick and a flag bearer who fights against the existing political system. "Ai has been benefiting from these titles, but in the meantime, he has also been hijacked by them."
This time "Ai seemed to have broken out of the label of his role. He opened his heart to the media. It has surprised many, because he did not complain a lot about what he has 'suffered' in China, as the Western media expected".
