by Pierre Jean-Luc Emile
Chief Editor of Défi Média Group, Mauritius
When I first landed at the airport, I didn’t realize how much I would be amazed by the real lifestyle in Chongqing.
As soon as I stepped out of the Chongqing airport terminal, I had a feeling that this trip would be unlike any other I had experienced in China. The warmth of the atmosphere was a reflection of the kindness expressed by the taxi drivers and border police. They were all genuinely friendly, as their goal was to provide visitors with an unforgettable experience, both in terms of hospitality and infrastructure.
The road leading out of the airport already gave me a glimpse of the quality of the road infrastructure. There wasn’t a single bump or pothole, and the vehicle taking me to the Wyndham Hotel seemed to be gliding on velvet.
Along the way, I was captivated by the beautiful Chinese brand cars with their vibrant colors and futuristic technologies.
Two days later, my visit to Changan Automobile Global left me speechless. The technology was so advanced, and the options so numerous, that they far surpassed the leading names in the global automotive industry. The Chinese manufacturer seemed to have found its place on the international stage of vehicles that roam the avenues of the world.
Chinese intelligence is not limited to the field of automobiles with smart cars. If proof were needed, I found it at Haifu. The ultrasound technology used in the treatment of cancer and women’s gynecological diseases, allowing them to regain their dignity, is also a step towards modern medicine. At Haifu Medical Technology Co. Ltd, I realized how much the Belt and Road Initiative was an opportunity for the African continent, where I live, to benefit from this technological advancement in order to effectively treat our patients without leaving any lasting effects. World leaders would be wise to pay more attention to the prospects offered by this project.
My amazement and enthusiasm grew even greater when I visited the ceramics and pottery museums. This ancient art is still an integral part of the lives of Chongqing’s city dwellers. The city’s municipality has skillfully combined modernity with ancient culture. Behind the smiles of the guides and artisans, one can sense the pleasure of sharing their ancient art and proudly showcasing Chongqing’s strengths. What also fascinated me was the city’s ability to create space for young people to find work in the city without feeling the need to consider leaving for the major metropolises in search of employment. The region’s economic development is a response to the problem of mass departures for Shanghai and Beijing, leaving parents alone behind.
Chongqing, the city of mountains and water, is undoubtedly a divine creation, both for its beauty and for the intelligence of the men and women who make up its population. This journey to this part of Southwest China has allowed me to awaken my cultural consciousness and to see China with new eyes, abandoning preconceived notions and the sometimes-influential Western media. I realized how much China has to offer the world.
I will never forget this trip to Chongqing. The city, its Yangtze River, its mountains, its bridges, its skyscrapers, will forever be etched in my heart.
*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.