China-South Asia: China is home away from home for me
In the midst of the global COVID-19 pandemic in 2021, I found myself traveling alone on Beijing Subway Line 1, heading from Wangfujing to Babaoshan. As I settled into the crowded train, I reached into my pocket and discovered that my iPhone was missing. I quickly disembarked at the next station and took a return train to Wangfujing. Despite the rush-hour crowd, within 10 minutes, I spotted my phone lying untouched on a bench, where I was waiting for the train. The experience was more than just a relief—it was a powerful testament to the honesty and integrity of the Chinese people. This simple act during such a challenging time reinforced a feeling I had nurtured since my first visit to China: this country had become a home away from home for me.
Mothilal Hissella visits the Great Wall.
This instance of honesty reflects a broader truth about the character of the Chinese people: they are law-abiding, respectful, and deeply caring. It was just one of the many experiences that strengthened my personal and professional connection with China.
Professional Interactions and Cultural Exchange
My journey with China extended far beyond this singular event. I have had the privilege of visiting the country three times and living in Beijing for two years, during which I worked as a foreign expert and consultant for China Media Group. Collaborating with dedicated Chinese professionals in the media landscape provided me with invaluable insights into their blend of tradition and innovation, a balance that continues to inspire my own professional practices.
Cultural exchanges became a key component of my experience in China. Whether participating in traditional festivals, visiting historical landmarks, or engaging in everyday conversations, I was constantly immersed in the richness and diversity of Chinese culture. My visits to iconic locations like the Great Wall of China were particularly memorable. The Great Wall is more than a historic structure; it is a symbol of China’s national pride, resilience, and its artistic and architectural grandeur. Its enduring presence has inspired countless works of art, literature, and legend.
I also had the privilege of visiting Xi’an, the ancient starting point of the Silk Road. The Silk Road was not just a commercial pathway but a bridge that connected cultures, ideas, and technologies between the East and West. This historical legacy of exchange and cooperation resonates with modern China's approach to fostering international partnerships.
Another highlight of my time in China was visiting Yunnan Province, often referred to as the “Crossroads of Southeast Asia and South Asia.” Yunnan’s cultural diversity, stunning landscapes, and rich Buddhist heritage left a profound impact on me. I had the opportunity to represent Sri Lanka at two consecutive LMAW meetings in Kunming, which further deepened my appreciation for China’s commitment to fostering cooperation with neighboring countries.
Yunnan has been at the forefront of China’s efforts to build stronger ties with South Asia and Southeast Asia, emphasizing mutual benefit, inclusiveness, and cooperation in various fields, including education, culture, and tourism. These interactions played a pivotal role in bridging cultural gaps, fostering mutual understanding, and creating lasting friendships.
The Value of Friendship
Over the past four decades, China has undergone remarkable economic growth, emerging as the world’s second-largest economy by nominal GDP. This transformation has seen China evolve from a centrally planned system to an increasingly market-oriented economy, which has opened up new opportunities for both domestic and international collaboration.
Today, China is on an ambitious path toward building a modern socialist country, as it works toward realizing the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation. Throughout this journey, China remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting neighboring countries in their pursuit of peace, prosperity, and development. The vision of building a community with a shared future among Asian nations highlights China’s dedication to fostering lasting peace and sustainable development across the region.
China’s efforts in creating this shared future are not limited to economic partnerships; they extend to cultural, educational, and technological cooperation, aiming to build lasting connections across borders. This cooperative spirit has strengthened China’s ties with neighboring countries, bringing mutual benefits and reinforcing the foundation for long-term collaboration. As China continues to grow, it is clear that its development will bring major opportunities and lasting contributions to regional peace and progress.
The kindness, honesty, and strong sense of community that characterize the Chinese people have left an indelible mark on my personal and professional life. The spirit of harmony and cooperation that I experienced during my time in China continues to inspire me, as I look forward to further strengthening the bonds of friendship and partnership between our nations.
(The writer Mothilal Hissella is a head journalist in international relations, Sri Lanka Rupavahini Corporation.)
Trans-editing by Zhang Min and Zu Hongbing
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