Written in the Sky: My China Story

By Colin Stevens

My Personal Journey with EU Reporter: Fostering Understanding Between China and Europe.

In an era where global relationships are constantly evolving, I’ve always believed that fostering dialogue between China and Europe is crucial. Through my work with EU Reporter, I’ve dedicated myself to promoting mutual understanding and balanced reporting on China-EU relations. Engaging with Chinese counterparts and collaborating with Chinese media has been instrumental in bridging the gap between East and West.

The Belt and Road News Network and Media Forum

One of the key platforms where EU Reporter has played a significant role is the Belt and Road News Network (BRNN). This platform promotes media collaboration among the countries participating in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). For me, it’s been an excellent opportunity to bring a European perspective to discussions about this ambitious global infrastructure project.

Participating in the Belt and Road Media Forum has allowed me to share insights on the BRI’s opportunities and challenges with media professionals from across the globe. I’ve always emphasized the importance of Europe engaging with China constructively, understanding the benefits that initiatives like the BRI offer, while remaining mindful of the strategic implications for Europe.

Cooperation with China Media Group Brussels Office

I’m particularly proud of the cooperation I helped establish between EU Reporter and China Media Group’s Brussels office. This partnership has facilitated people-to-people exchanges between journalists from both sides, creating a richer, more informed dialogue. By collaborating, we’ve been able to produce more comprehensive coverage of both European and Chinese affairs, which has enriched our understanding of one another.

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Cooperation with the Chinese Embassy in Brussels

Another milestone for EU Reporter has been our media cooperation and story publications with the Chinese Embassy in Brussels, under the leadership of Ambassador H.E. FEI Shengchao. This agreement has allowed us to offer our European readers deeper insights into China’s role in global and European affairs while strengthening our diplomatic and media ties with China.

Through this partnership, we’ve worked to present balanced stories that facilitate greater transparency and cooperation on issues that matter to both China and Europe.

Discovering Common Ground in China

My personal visits to China have been some of the most eye-opening experiences of my career. Through my interactions with Chinese officials, business leaders, and citizens, I’ve come to realize that we, Europeans and Chinese, have far more in common than we often think. From our shared concerns about the environment to the importance we place on family and economic stability, I’ve seen firsthand how our goals align in many areas.

These experiences have shaped my commitment to ensuring that EU Reporter covers China in a way that goes beyond surface-level reporting. I believe it’s crucial to present a more nuanced understanding of China, one that acknowledges both the differences and the similarities we share.

Welcoming Chinese Journalists at the Press Club Brussels

During my two years – 2019-2021 – as President of the Press Club Brussels, I worked hard to welcome Chinese journalists stationed in Brussels and to help integrate them into the European media landscape. Creating an environment where Chinese and European journalists could engage in meaningful exchanges was important to me, as it helped to break down cultural barriers and foster mutual understanding.

I’ve always believed that media cooperation is vital to ensuring balanced and accurate reporting, and this initiative was part of my broader effort to strengthen ties between European and Chinese media professionals.

Expanding Cooperation with Chinese Media in the UK

As EU Reporter is jointly based in Brussels and London, I’m also eager to expand our cooperation with Chinese media and institutions in the UK. I see tremendous potential for collaboration with the Chinese Embassy in the UK and Chinese media organizations operating there. With the UK’s evolving role in global affairs post-Brexit, I believe there’s a growing need for greater understanding between British and Chinese audiences.

Through increased collaboration, I hope to create more opportunities for UK and Chinese journalists to work together, exchanging ideas and offering balanced reporting on key issues such as trade, culture, and global challenges.

My Perspective on China-EU Relations

From my own perspective, China-EU relations offer both opportunities and challenges. The economic ties between the two regions are undeniable, and there’s great potential for collaboration in areas such as trade, climate change, and technological innovation. However, I also recognize the strategic concerns that exist, particularly around human rights and political differences.

Through my ownership and work at EU Reporter, I’ve always advocated for a balanced approach to China-EU relations, one grounded in diplomacy, cooperation, and mutual respect. I believe that by focusing on shared challenges and finding areas of common ground, we can build a more constructive and sustainable partnership between Europe and China.

A Commitment to Fostering Dialogue

In conclusion, I’m proud of the role EU Reporter has played in fostering dialogue between China and Europe. Whether it’s through our involvement in the Belt and Road News Network, our cooperation with China Media Group’s Brussels office, our partnership with the Chinese Embassy in Brussels, or our efforts to expand ties with Chinese media in the UK, I remain committed to promoting a deeper understanding between these two important regions.

My experiences—both professional and personal—have reinforced my belief that open dialogue and mutual respect are the keys to fostering productive China-EU relations. Through balanced reporting and a commitment to collaboration, I hope to continue shaping the future of this vital relationship.

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