For Lu Ying, a young scholar from the Chinese mainland, the journey to Moscow began with a set of stereotypes: a land of frozen landscapes and an indomitable "fighting spirit." However, as she pursues her PhD in journalism at the Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, she has discovered a reality far more nuanced and welcoming.
Living in the heart of the Russian capital, Lu has found a city characterized by its sprawling parks and the ethereal glow of white summer nights. While the local demeanor may initially seem reserved, Lu's experience has been defined by warmth. From an advisor who meticulously helped her refine her research papers to classmates who shared their notes without hesitation, the support system she found in Moscow has reshaped her perspective on the region.
One particular encounter left a lasting impact on Lu. A Russian grandmother shared a faded photograph from the 1980s, depicting herself with a Chinese student. "This Chinese friend helped me and I will always remember it," the woman recalled. For Lu, this poignant moment served as a revelation: the friendship between China and Russia is not merely a diplomatic phrase found in official news releases, but a living history woven from the memories and goodwill of ordinary people.
Looking toward the future, Lu intends to leverage her journalistic training to document the lives and emotions of ordinary Russian citizens. She posits that true cooperation between the two nations extends beyond the construction of oil pipelines and railways. To Lu, the most critical infrastructure for the future is mutual understanding between people.
In her eyes, Russia is more than just a land of snow; it is a place of profound human warmth and enduring connections.
Reference(s):
A girl builds a bridge of China-Russia friendship through journalism
cgtn.com
