When Egyptian lecturer and vlogger Mohamed Jihad first arrived in China in 2017, he was captivated by the nation’s rich culture and rapid development. Settling into life across Tianjin, Beijing, and now Hebei Province, Jihad found himself amid a society that would soon face an unprecedented challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic.
Over the past three years, Jihad witnessed firsthand China’s resilience and its commitment to prioritizing the well-being of its people. “China has shown remarkable determination to put the people in the first place,” he remarked, reflecting on the nation’s swift response to the pandemic.
Following China’s recent adjustments to its COVID-19 policies, Jihad took to the streets of Hebei with his camera in hand. Through his vlogs, he showcased how life in local communities has evolved, highlighting the nation’s efforts to return to normalcy while maintaining public health measures.
“The changes are palpable,” Jihad noted. “There is a renewed energy in the streets, and people are adapting with a positive spirit.”
He praised China’s epidemic prevention work, emphasizing not only the domestic efforts but also the international aid extended to countries like his homeland, Egypt. “China didn’t just focus on itself; it sent vaccines and supplies to other countries in need. This global solidarity is truly commendable,” he said.
However, Jihad expressed concern over what he perceives as biased reporting by some foreign media outlets regarding China’s COVID-19 prevention work. “There is a narrative that overlooks the positive strides China has made,” he argued. “As someone living here, I feel it’s important to share the reality I see every day.”
Through his vlogs, Jihad aims to bridge the information gap and provide an on-the-ground perspective. His stories resonate with many who are interested in Asia’s dynamic role in global affairs, offering insights into the cultural, social, and economic developments within China.
“I want to foster understanding and highlight the human stories behind the headlines,” he said. “China’s experience with the pandemic holds valuable lessons for the world.”
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Egyptian vlogger: Foreign media biased against China's COVID policies
cgtn.com
