Young Sinologists encouraged to bridge civilizations

President Xi Jinping has encouraged young Sinologists to present a true, multidimensional and panoramic image of China to the world, and serve as messengers to promote mutual understanding between Chinese and foreign civilizations.

He made the remarks in a reply letter to 61 young Sinologists from 51 countries, who will attend the 2025 World Chinese Language Conference from Friday to Sunday in Beijing.

In their letter to Xi, the young Sinologists shared their experiences and insights gained through China studies, and expressed their willingness to deepen their study and facilitate cultural exchanges.

The president expressed his appreciation that the young Sinologists not only cherish the Chinese language and culture, but also play an active role in promoting Sinology and mutual learning among civilizations.

Sinology originates from China but belongs to the world, and it represents a shared spiritual treasure of all humankind, Xi noted.

Xi said he hopes that the young Sinologists will continue their China studies and deepen research, and contribute their wisdom and strength to building a community with a shared future for humanity.

Initiated in 2023, it will be the third time for China to host the World Chinese Language Conference, with previous events each attracting around 2,000 participants.

Aleksandra Polchlopek, a Polish PhD student from Beijing Foreign Studies University, said that as China's influence in global cultural and academic fields continues to grow, more foreign students are willing to learn about Chinese traditions.

The Chinese language itself, with its unique modes of expression and vast classical texts, offers strong appeal to language learners, she said.

Additionally, in an increasingly interconnected world, globalization has made cross-cultural exchanges more accessible, while young people are willing to engage with different civilizations, she added.

Dario Famularo, an Italian lecturer at Sichuan International Studies University, said that young Sinologists could gain a deep understanding of the essence and logic of Chinese civilization, which enables them to present China to their own countries in a more accurate and nuanced way, thereby helping to overcome stereotypes and prejudice.

When more young people around the world come to truly understand China through Sinology, and when China is seen more clearly through their perspectives, mutual trust between peoples will be strengthened, he said, adding that this helps lay a solid foundation of public goodwill for long-term and stable friendship between nations.

Maryam Mohsin Hassan Abdalla, a 27-year-old from Sudan who is now studying for a PhD in Beijing, said that while bringing China's views and philosophy to the broader international stage, she can also introduce her country's culture and perspectives to China.

And this kind of exchange is especially important in the field of translation, she added.

Contact the writers at zhoujin@chinadaily.com.cn