Ollivier Jean-Baptiste, 25, a vlogger from France living in China, delivered a speech on the latest episode of the China Daily Youth Power series on Jan 30. In his speech, Jean-Baptiste spoke about his initial impressions of China. Just like his family and friends, he saw China as a mysterious place with a culture entirely different from Western countries.
The idea of visiting China first came to him when his uncle, who worked in China, returned with endless praise for the Chinese lifestyle. “Everything, from the food to the scenery, was incredibly appealing,” he recalled.
Later, a Chinese woman introduced him personally to the everyday life of Chinese people, which exposed him to a different way of living. The woman later became his wife, and they moved to Beijing in 2022, which Jean-Baptiste described as “eye-opening” for him. “She took me to see the flag-raising ceremony. Witnessing countless people rushing toward the flag, I was deeply moved. It’s a country of strength, unity, and love,” he said.
When Jean-Baptiste went to his wife’s hometown, the beautiful countryside located in Southwest China, for the first time, a group of locals started shouting “waiguoren”, which means “foreigner”, and ran after him. He understood that this was their way of showing interest and hospitality. “Many, even those who spoke little English, would say ‘welcome to China’. I felt the warmth of home in a foreign country,” he said.
These experiences made Jean-Baptiste eager to spread Chinese culture. When he returned to France for vacation and shared photos in China with his family, they were also excited. After learning about the 15-day visa-free travel from France to China, they couldn’t wait to book their trip to China. “I’m overjoyed to host them showcasing China’s modern development and rich history,” he said. “I may be just an ordinary person with limited influence, but everyone can be a cultural ambassador.”
4. What inspired Jean-Baptiste to visit China from France?
A.His plan to start a new business. | B.His interest in his uncle’s experience. |
C.His dream of having an international tour. | D.His passion for spreading French culture. |
5. Why did Jean-Baptiste feel the power of China?
A.He lived in Beijing with his wife for years. | B.He learnt the daily life of Chinese people. |
C.He encountered many people in a ceremony. | D.He realized people’s love for the national flag. |
6. What is paragraph 4 mainly about?
A.The experience of visiting a village. | B.The introduction to cultural diversity. |
C.The recommendation of Chinese custom. | D.The significance of communication. |
7. What can best describe Jean-Baptiste on spreading Chinese culture?
A.Ambitious and courageous. | B.Cautious and persistent. |
C.Devoted and enthusiastic. | D.Patient and dedicated. |