Ragnar Baldursson, a sinologist and former Icelandic diplomat, offers fresh perspectives on China's cultural DNA and its modern global engagements through CGTN's interview series. His decades-long engagement with Chinese philosophy reveals how ancient wisdom continues shaping the nation's development trajectory and international partnerships.
Confucianism in Everyday Life
Baldursson discovered China's cultural essence through unexpected channels – taxi drivers casually referencing Confucian principles while discussing daily life. This observation highlights how traditional values like 'He Wei Gui' (harmony is precious) remain deeply embedded in social interactions, even among those who claim political disinterest.
Bridging Nations Through Green Energy
The scholar-diplomat played a pivotal role in fostering geothermal energy collaboration between China and Iceland. Through student exchanges and technical cooperation, this partnership demonstrates how nations can leverage complementary strengths – China's scale and Iceland's renewable energy expertise – to advance sustainable development goals.
Ancient Philosophy, Modern Applications
Baldursson identifies China's historical rice-growing culture as foundational to its cooperative development model. Concepts like 'Tian Ren He Yi' (harmony between humanity and nature) now inform the country's ambitious green transition, while millennia-old emphasis on coordination helps explain its efficient global supply chain integration.
