"China's growing economic and political role has given Africa a fresh alternative and freedom from the one-sided policies imposed by the so-called Washington Consensus, dominated by the United States, earlier."

Raphael Kaplinsky, a professor of international development at Britain's Open University, saying that China is playing a vital role in industrialization in Africa. Chinese investment and aid, often offered without any political consideration, stands in stark contrast to conditional Western assistance, he said.

"The First Lady's decision to use a Chinese fashion brand for her debut outfit is the best recognition that Chinese designers and companies have got recently."

Huang Hung, chief executive of China Interactive Media Group, and the creator of Brand New China, an upmarket boutique that showcases the talent of Chinese designers, commenting on the huge public interest that has arisen in China over the elegant Chinese-styled clothing of Peng Liyuan, wife of President Xi Jinping.

"Beijing's advantage lies in education, Shanghai in its financial sector, and Shenzhen in its innovative ability. I think every city has its own merits, and we cannot make any comparison between them."

Kai-Fu Lee, the former head of Google China and a technology entrepreneur, saying in a recent interview that Chinese cities should focus more on individual strengths, rather than common blueprints, while considering development strategies.

(China Daily 03/29/2013 page2)