Mr. Youssef Khalil.（COURTESY PHOTO）

By Youssef Khalil

The borders between countries, in its classic meaning, no longer exist. Societies are open to each other, and information is being spread more extensively than it was ever before. Communication between humans on urbanized continents is becoming smoother and faster day after day.

I was one of the individuals who crossed cultural and linguistic boundaries, and I was one of those who took upon themselves seeking a deep understanding and consideration of the wonderful Chinese culture in all known areas of life. I went through this voyage when I was 68 years old, with full love and awareness supported by an intellectual, creative, and academic stature, 13 years ago.

Today, with eight decades of life experience and knowledge, I can confidently tell that two of my best life choices were: coming to China and living in China. I never felt I am thousands of miles apart from my home country. I learned a lot, and did not stop learning from the life's school of China. Today, I have a wider cultural understanding and a broader scientific knowledge than ever before. I even learned a lot more since I started writing a book entitled The Red East; Voyage to China.

In China, I learned that the universal values are the basis of the relationship between the inhabitants of the globe, the first of which is tolerance. Here in China, I learned that open-mindedness is more of a moral and philosophical value than a political one. Tolerance is nothing but the fruit of the conscious mind and cosmic awareness. It is embodied by those working in the fields of education, culture and media, and I was one of them. This field includes a wide audience who are eager to learn about other cultures.

Chinese culture is the spiritual supply that Chinese nation adopts in the progress journey throughout its very long history.

Foreign guests in China must be deeply absorbed in the origins of this culture and spread it, and we should expend all our energies to reach the highest ranks in representing these roles and presenting them to the world.

As a foreigner with Chinese heart, I learned:

• The Chinese leaders always set moral examples to people.

• Spreading love for the other people and nations as a dynamic relationship exists in exchange of virtue between people.

• When you treat people with love and respect, people will treat in the same manners.

• Virtue must be given over life, and sometimes, people sacrifice their lives in order to achieve virtue.

• The material role comes to raise the moral values of the people to the society. When the society is more financially stable, it is easier to develop it and to set higher standards and values for its people.

I believe that Chinese glory will remain forever and spread my knowledge about China by:

• Teaching Arabic language and culture with several universities in Guangzhou and Chongqing.

• Giving presentations about China and Chinese culture to international students and educating Chinese scholars about the culture or Arab countries.

• Taking part in all academic and educational activities held by the local community where I live.

• Organize Arabic corners and discussion/conversation groups in cooperation with Arabic departments in several universities.

• Writing articles about Chinese culture in newspapers, allowing people in my country to know more about China.

I consider Chinese culture as one of the most prestigious cultures, because it is based on ethical principles and is an authoritative reference for wisdom and respect for the virtues that protect humans. It provides the ability to communicate with others and live with them in safety and peace, and to exchange knowledge in a way that serves all people, far from differences in color, nationality and belief.

Learning how to smile to others gives them comfort and safety, explores all their abilities, and connects with them as friends for a better life. This is what I learned from Chinese people.

I consider China a source of inspiration in all aspects of life, including science, culture, art, creativity, wisdom, invention, and the amazing scientific progress. We are looking for witnessing the glory of China under the wise leadership of President Xi Jinping, who launched the Belt and Road Initiative and who realized that the Chinese dream would make the new world happier, more peaceful and prosperous.

China and the great people of China will always have a very high status in the eyes of its friends.

(Professor Youssef Khalil is an inventor and university professor with over 60 years of experience in the field of education and Arabic Language and Culture in China and other countries.)