By Mustafa Kuleli
President of Media Innovation Technology Assocaition
Editor in Chief of Mediternews, Türkiye
Before visiting China, my understanding of the country came from a distance. It was shaped by headlines, documentaries, and secondhand narratives. But no amount of reading or research can replace the value of firsthand experience. As I prepare for another visit, I find myself reflecting on my earliest impressions—moments that revealed a culture rooted in peace, cooperation, and mutual respect.
What struck me immediately was the openness. In conversations with strangers, shared meals, and daily life across both cities and rural areas, I encountered a real desire to connect. China invites dialogue, not only between nations but also between people and ideas.
One of the most powerful impressions was the emphasis on harmony. Not in the sense of sameness, but of coexistence. In a world often divided, China’s cultural approach offers something important: a belief that different traditions can thrive side by side, that inclusiveness is a strength.
I was also moved by the warmth of the people. From urban centers to remote villages, I was welcomed with sincerity and kindness. That hospitality wasn’t simply politeness. It reflected a deeper cultural value—the belief that mutual benefit begins with mutual understanding.
Chinese culture balances past and present in a way that feels natural. It is confident in its traditions while open to change. That balance reflects a wider philosophy, one that favors cooperation over confrontation, and learning over lecturing.
As I get ready to return, I carry with me the lessons of those first impressions. China is not only a country of remarkable development and history. It is also a place where a different model of engagement is possible —one based on respect, openness, and shared growth.
*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.