by Muluken Yewondwossen Kifle
Deputy Editor-in-Chief of Capital Newspaper, Ethiopia
As an Ethiopian journalist preparing for my first visit to Chongqing, China, to attend the Belt and Road Journalists Network Conference, I am filled with a mix of curiosity and anticipation. Chongqing, a major city in southwest China, promises to be a fascinating introduction to this vast and diverse nation.
From my research, I have discovered that Chongqing’s landscape is characterized by its dramatic hills and rivers, earning it the name ‘Mountain City’. I am eager to see how the two great rivers converge and create a unique geographical setting that has shaped the city’s development, and how this terrain influences daily life and urban planning, with its numerous bridges and tunnels.
Chongqing’s skyline, a blend of futuristic skyscrapers and traditional architecture, symbolizes China’s rapid modernization alongside its rich historical heritage. This is another spectacular element of my visit, which will definitely tell the story of the city’s evolution.
One of the aspects I am most excited about is experiencing its culinary scene. Chinese food, renowned for bold and spicy flavors, has always been an adventure forme. I anticipate that each meal in Chongqing will offer new tastes and insights into Chinese cuisine, celebrated for its diversity and depth.
I have known a number of Chinese citizens in my country, and I have always admired their humility and respect for others. Meeting the people of Chongqing will be the highlight of my visit in August 2024. From bustling markets to quiet neighborhoods, I hope to engage with locals and learn about their customs, traditions, and daily lives. Their stories will undoubtedly enrich my understanding of Chinese society and culture.
One of the major elements I am fascinated to see in China in general, and in Chongqing in particular, is its advancements in public transportation. I have witnessed and benefited from China’s excellence and commitment to innovation and infrastructure development, particularly in the transportation sector, in my country, Ethiopia. I just can’ t wait to witness the level of advancement at the origin itself.
As I embark on this journey, I aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of China’s dynamic blend of ancient traditions and modern advancements. I look forward to sharing my observations and fostering greater connections between Ethiopia and China.
*The views and opinions expressed in the articles are solely those of the individual authors and do not reflect the position of the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Journalist Network.