Zhao Mei, a member of the 14th CPPCC National Committee and a researcher with the Institute of American Studies, under Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, attended a group interview ahead of the second plenary meeting of the fourth session of the 14th CPPCC National Committee, on March 7. Zhao shared two stories that illustrated the importance of exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and foreign civilizations.
Zhao spoke of Richard Sears, an American nicknamed "Uncle Hanzi (hanzi means Chinese characters)" by Chinese netizens, and she noted Sears is passionate about the Chinese language and characters. Sears, she added, designed a website about ancient Chinese characters.
During the past two decades, Sears has accumulated a wealth of information on his website, and he has cataloged nearly 100,000 ancient Chinese characters. Also, the website has reached people in more than 170 countries and regions. Many foreigners, Zhao noted, have developed a deep appreciation for Chinese culture through Sears' work.
Zhao also recalled a close American friend, a leading scholar in Chinese affairs, who visited Xizang a few years ago, when he shared his impressions of Xizang with Zhao. "My friend repeatedly exclaimed, 'It's amazing! Truly amazing!' He also said 'to understand China, one must see it for oneself. That is seeing is believing,'" said Zhao.
"Friendship, which derives from close contact between the people, holds the key to sound State-to-State relations. China will continue to embrace the world with openness, respecting and learning from different civilizations, while promoting mutual understanding," added Zhao.
Photo by Zhang Jiamin
(Source: Women of China)
Editor: Wang Shasha
