Patrick Nijs, the former Belgian ambassador to China, has embarked on an extraordinary journey since ending his diplomatic tenure. First arriving in China as a diplomat in 1997, Nijs served as ambassador from 2009 until 2013. But instead of returning to Belgium upon completing his service, he chose to stay and make China his permanent home.
Settling in a remote mountain village in southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nijs has dedicated himself to ecological and environmental protection. The lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Yunnan captured his heart, inspiring him to pursue his ecological dream amidst the serene mountains.
In a recent conversation with CGTN host Michael Wang, Nijs shared insights into his decision to remain in China. "I was drawn by the country's commitment to environmental conservation and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change," he said. "China's strides in ecological protection and governance are remarkable, and I wanted to be a part of that journey."
Nijs discussed China's achievements in promoting sustainable practices and restoring natural habitats. He emphasized the importance of international collaboration in addressing environmental challenges. "Ecology knows no borders," he noted. "By fostering exchange and communication between China and the West, we can collectively advance global environmental initiatives."
His passion for ecological exchange has led him to engage with local communities and organizations, bridging cultural and knowledge gaps. Nijs believes that mutual understanding and cooperation are key to tackling ecological issues. "Living in Yunnan has allowed me to experience firsthand the deep connection between people and nature here," he explained. "It's a perspective I hope to share with the world."
From diplomat to conservationist, Patrick Nijs' journey reflects a personal commitment to environmental stewardship and a belief in the power of cross-cultural collaboration. His story is a testament to the impact one individual can have in fostering global ecological awareness and action.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
