Africa's interview with Mr. Lu Shaye, Director-General of Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Reporter:Sun Yuanhui
Our enterprises should pay attention to the national image rather than focusing on their own profits when they make investment and do business in Africa. African people view China through Chinese enterprises and Chinese people. It's quite simple that Africans will think China is good if Chinese enterprises are good and vice versa. Mr. Lu Shaye, Director-General of Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his sincere hope for the Chinese enterprises when he received an exclusive interview with Africa.
Before interviewing Director-General, the reporter had watched his interview with 2nd National TV of France, when he was Chinese ambassador to Senegal at that time. He appeared confident and calm when faced with the aggressive questions posed by the French reporter.
Newly appointed as the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, Mr. Lu received an exclusive interview with Africa in the early summer. In the interview, Mr. Lu not only reviewed the history of China-Africa relations and looked forward to the prospects of the development of the Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), but also voiced his opinions on some hot issues such as Chinese enterprises going global, "Made in China" in Africa and how to cultivate "great power mentality" etc. Mr. Lu was candid and sincere in the interview and his firm, determined and confident expression in the eyes left the reporter with a particularly deep impression.
Changes and Consistence in China-Africa Relations
Africa: As I know, though you are newly appointed the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you have been working with African affairs for a long time and can be called an "old Africa hand". How do you think of the differences between the China-Africa relations of today and previously?
Lu Shaye: Yes, I am an "old Africa hand". I have been working for more than 20 years and during all these years have been dealing with African affairs. Personally I would divide the development of China-Africa relations into three phases. First, a politics-oriented phase from 1950s to 1978 before China began the reforms and opening-up; second, an economy-oriented phase from 1978 to the mid of 1990s; and third, a strategy-oriented phase from the mid-1990s, ie President Jiang Zemin's visit to Africa till present.
Looking at these three phases, there are both changes and consistence in China-Africa relations. The consistence is manifest in the following three aspects:
Firstly, the traditional friendship between China and Africa is consistent. From 1950s till present, China-Africa traditional friendship has been constantly consolidating and developing. Chinaand Africa have always been good brothers, good partners and good friends. Secondly, the fundamental principle of China's policy to Africa doesn't change. The core connotation of China's policy to Africa has never changed, which includes sincere friendship, equal treatment, unity, cooperation, and common progress. The nature of China-Africa relations remains unchanged. China-Africa relations are always the relations of unity and cooperation between developing countries. Although many people have already begun regarding China as a developed country, China in fact is still a developing country. Our hearts, ideas and positions always go with developing countries.
Changes do have happened. The situation has undergone profound changes in the past half century and is also manifest in three aspects:
Firstly, there are changes in the situation of different countries and the international environment. Secondly, there are great changes in the content of China-Africa cooperation. Compared with the previous, current China-Africa cooperation can be summarized by expanding fields, richer in content, innovative in form and larger on scale. For instance, economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa, different from pure economic aid and infrastructure construction, now includes investment, resource development, debt cancellation, and ongoing China-Africa Funds. Secondly, the people to people and culture exchanges have also expanded. The biggest innovation is that we have set up the Forum on China Africa Cooperation. Thirdly, the influence of China-Africa Cooperation in the international community has also seen changes. China-Africa cooperation has become a frequently discussed hot issue worldwide that western countries follow with great interest. In addition, China-Africa cooperation has encouraged other major countries to pay attention to Africa. Meanwhile, China-Africa cooperation has played an important role in the peaceful development of Africa, having contributed 20% of Africa's economic growth. Its role is incomparable with that of 1950s to 1960s.
Africa: Personally, what is your expectation for the prospects for China-Africa relations?
Lu Shaye: There are great potentials in the development of China-Africa cooperation. Firstly, it is beyond doubt that China is always taking China-Africa relations seriously. Secondly, both sides are in urgent need of strengthening strategic cooperation and the influence of China's development mode is expanding, in particular. Since the financial crisis, African countries have begun to introspect the effectiveness of the development model of western capitalism. They hope to draw on the favorable experiences from China's development. Thirdly, the development of international situation encourages China and Africa to strengthen cooperation. Now,many issues such as financial crisis, climate change and other non-traditional security threats link China with African countries more closely. These issues need to be addressed by strengthening cooperation between China and Africa.As a result, the prospects for China-Africa cooperation will become broader.
Over simplification –A Common Mistake Made by the West
Africa: In recent years, the African situation has undergone many changes. The opinions are widely divided, some positive and some negative. How do you think of it?
Lu shaye: It depends on one's standpoint and perspective. A coin has two sides. Since the beginning of the new era, generally speaking, peace and stability on the African continent is far better than that in 1990s. The majority of Africa countries have maintained political stability and some hot issues have been cooled down. As for the economy, the African economy has seen constant growth since the late 1990s at a rate of 4%-5%, which is not low. Despite of the impact of the financial crisis, Africa's economy has begun to resurge this year. In addition, African countries have strengthened unity and self-improvement. They are trying to have one voice on global issues such as international crisis and climate change etc, and they have become an important and active force on the international arena.
There are coup d' état and riots in some regions and non-traditional threats such as Somali pirates. In terms of economy, Africa's foundation is a bit weak. I believe that the biggest problem for Africa is its low industrialization level. They have consumed the money earned from exporting resources instead of investing it in production, which impedes sustainable development. We say Africa is marginalized in the process of globalization because it is not incorporated into the world industrial chain or is at the very bottom of the chain.
Africa: The western media constantly charge China of exercising neo-colonialism in Africa and exploiting African labors. Their comments on China-Africa relations are negative on the whole. What do you think of that?
Lu Shaye: In my opinion, western countries always criticize China. But in fact, they should look at themselves. They don't do as well as China does (for Africans in Africa) even today, let alone in the colonial period in the past. Examples can be found everywhere such as Western countries exploiting resources without restraint, usurping land, mining resources and engaging in destructive lumbering practices in Africa. I have seen a documentary by a western TV station about big western companies exploring African mineral resources. They made a mess and ignored the local people who had occupational diseases from mining work. When Chinese enterprises explore resources in Africa, they encounter environmental problems too. However, the Chinese government would educate and guide Chinese enterprises to follow the international conventions and rules when working with African countries. Firstly, they should observe the international practice and win projects by fair and just negotiation on the basis of business rules. Secondly, they should abide by the local laws and protect the environment during development. Thirdly, they should fulfill social responsibilities by sharing the benefits with the local community. In fact, reputable Chinese enterprises with appropriate qualifications follow the above rules in doing business in Africa. Some problems such as the low wage of workers may exist but they are not common. People should not make simple generalizations and can't regard a particular problem as common practice or politicalize economic issues. Nor should people attribute all problems to China.
The western media are either mistaken or they just do it on purpose. Whenever there is a problem, they would blame the Chinese government. People should look at issues in a comprehensive and reasonable way and on a case-by-case basis.
The Forum on China Africa Cooperation Has Made Fruitful Achievements.
Africa: This year marks the 10th Anniversary since FOCAC was established, and it is the first year of the 4th Ministerial Conference of FOCAC.What do you think of the development of FOCAC? What are the positive results of the 4th Ministerial Conference implemented? What are your plans for the future?
Lu Shaye: I should say that I have experienced 10 years of the development of FOCAC. I have participated in FOCAC since 2000 when it was set up. I have comprehensive understanding of FOCAC and profound affections for it. First of all, FOCAC is a banner that guides the development of China-Africa relations. Many policies and measures on China-Africa cooperation are brewed and implemented under the framework of FOCAC. The role of China-Africa relations has changed from a long-term new type of is stable, equal and mutually beneficial cooperation to a new type of strategic partnership.
Secondly, FOCAC is a highly effective platform for both China and Africa to have a collective dialogue. There are a number of multi-level exchange mechanisms under the FOCAC framework, ranging from ministerial level, high official conferences to exchanges between the Chinese follow-up secretariat and diplomatic missions of Africa. In general, both China and Africa maintain smooth exchanges.
Thirdly, FOCAC is an effective mechanism for China and Africa to carry out pragmatic cooperation. Since the 1st Ministerial Conference, we have proposed some pragmatic measures to promote China-Africa cooperation in each Ministerial Conference. For example, it was proposed that we cancel the debts of some African countries on the 1st Ministerial Conference. Within two years, the Chinese government cancelled 10.5 billion-yuan debts that matured in 32 most underdeveloped and debt-ridden poor African countries with no strings attached.The debt cancellation of the Chinese government is a driving force for the international community to cancel African debts.
At Beijing Summit of FOCAC 2006, President Hu Jintao, on behalf of the Chinese government, proposed eight measures to promote China-Africa cooperation. All the measures have been implemented. On the 4th Ministerial Conference of FOCAC in November 2009, Premier Wen proposed eight new measures for China's cooperation with Africa. At present, many measures are being implemented. Of these measures, debt cancellation and duty exemption have already been implemented. In addition, we have launched some new projects, such as China-Africa Cooperation and Exchange Program on Science, Technology and Culture, and China-Africa Joint Research and Exchange Program. China is seriously honoring its commitment.
Chinese Enterprises Should Safeguard National Image
Africa: In recent years, with the comprehensive and in-depth development of China-Africa cooperation on economy and trade, more and more Chinese enterprises are making investment and doing business in Africa. Is it one part of the "Go Global"strategy that is carried forward by the Chinese government? As the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, do you have any suggestions or advice for those enterprises going to Africa?
Lu Shaye: Yes, it is a part of the "Go Global"strategy of the Chinese government. In these years, with the development of FOCAC, more and more Chinese enterprises go to Africa and do business in broader fields. Chinese enterprises have made great contributions to China-Africa cooperation.
I hope that Chinese enterprises will carry forward the fine traditions and maintain China-Africa traditional friendship in the process of development and investment. As more Chinese enterprises are going to Africa now, more criticism has occurred. Apart from the West, some African countries complain about the Chinese enterprises too. We can't sidestep this issue. As for western media's hostile stirring-up, we should refute it with convincing arguments to ensure a correct understanding of the facts. We should take the complaints made by some African countries seriously. We should do in-depth self-exam on our own problems and try to improve.
The Africa magazineis dedicated to the domestic enterprises. To be frank, our enterprises should pay attention to the national image rather than focusing on their own profits when they make investment and do business in Africa. African people view China through Chinese enterprises and Chinese people. It's quite simple that if Chinese enterprises are good, Africans will think China good and vice versa. Our enterprises must take notice of it.
What should these enterprises do? In my opinion, first of all, an enterprise must have the sense of social responsibility, observe laws and disciplines and present good corporate image and staff image when it is doing business in Africa. Some western media criticize Chinese companies for sending domestic prisoners to Africa. Of course, it is the West that intentionally distorts the fact. However, our enterprises and our workers should pay attention to their behavior and appearance and not forget that they represent China when they work in Africa. Secondly, an enterprise should be honest and keep its word. Thirdly, enterprise should pay attention to equality and mutual benefits. They should give consideration to Africans'interests and take on social responsibility such as creating jobs for the local people and improving their working conditions etc. Fourthly, it's security. Now many Chinese enterprises go to Africa and security-related accidents have increased. Therefore Chinese enterprises should have awareness for security and risk prevention and should strengthen risk prevention according to different situations in different countries. Meanwhile enterprises should keep close contact with Chinese embassies in the host countries so that they can get advice and help and avoid taking the wrong turn.
Chinese People Should Have a "Great Power Mentality"
Africa: We have just made a special plan on reporting on the low quality products in Africa. What do you think of the problems that have happened to "Made in China" in Africa?
Lu Shaye: I have read these articles carefully and the comments are generally positive. Low quality products do exist and we should face the problem rather than neglecting it. I have noticed that the articles have analyzed the reason for the issue. In fact the problems are not caused by Chinese enterprises only but they still should attach more importance to the problems.
Chinese enterprises should cherish their image overseas. Once the image is ruined, it's difficult to restore it. We expose problems in order to solve them. I suggest that your magazine offer these enterprises some advice. You should have some in-dept reports like these, which will evoke some repercussions.
In addition, I believe that China is developing and it is becoming strong. As a result, our mentality should also change. We should have the "great power mentality". The "great power mentality"I am talking about is the broadmindedness of a big nation rather than "to be condescending"or "the big bullying the small". We should treat our weaknesses with a broad mind rather than hiding or sidestepping the problems.
Africa: Africa is the first monthly Chinese magazine that introduces Africa systemically and comprehensively. The aim of the magazine is to offer assistance to Chinese people who are going to make investment, do business, travel or explore local conditions and customs in Africa. Could you please give us some suggestions and tell us your expectations from us?
Lu Shaye: I have read some issues. Designed novel, this magazine is beautifully printed and highly readable. As the goal of your magazine is to assist Chinese enterprises and people to understand or go to Africa, your special perspective gives you a favorable opportunity. I hope you will work hard towards the goal and make your magazine even better in the future.
Africa's interview with Mr. Lu Shaye, Director-General of Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Reporter: Sun Yuanhui
Our enterprises should pay attention to the national image rather than focusing on their own profits when they make investment and do business in Africa. African people view China through Chinese enterprises and Chinese people. It's quite simple that Africans will think China is good if Chinese enterprises are good and vice versa. Mr. Lu Shaye, Director-General of Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed his sincere hope for the Chinese enterprises when he received an exclusive interview with Africa.
Before interviewing Director-General, the reporter had watched his interview with 2nd National TV of France, when he was Chinese ambassador to Senegal at that time. He appeared confident and calm when faced with the aggressive questions posed by the French reporter.
Newly appointed as the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, Mr. Lu received an exclusive interview with Africa in the early summer. In the interview, Mr. Lu not only reviewed the history of China-Africa relations and looked forward to the prospects of the development of the Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), but also voiced his opinions on some hot issues such as Chinese enterprises going global, "Made in China" in Africa and how to cultivate "great power mentality" etc. Mr. Lu was candid and sincere in the interview and his firm, determined and confident expression in the eyes left the reporter with a particularly deep impression.
Changes and Consistence in China-Africa Relations
Africa: As I know, though you are newly appointed the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, you have been working with African affairs for a long time and can be called an "old Africa hand". How do you think of the differences between the China-Africa relations of today and previously?
Lu Shaye: Yes, I am an "old Africa hand". I have been working for more than 20 years and during all these years have been dealing with African affairs. Personally I would divide the development of China-Africa relations into three phases. First, a politics-oriented phase from 1950s to 1978 before China began the reforms and opening-up; second, an economy-oriented phase from 1978 to the mid of 1990s; and third, a strategy-oriented phase from the mid-1990s, ie President Jiang Zemin's visit to Africa till present.
Looking at these three phases, there are both changes and consistence in China-Africa relations. The consistence is manifest in the following three aspects:
Firstly, the traditional friendship between China and Africa is consistent. From 1950s till present, China-Africa traditional friendship has been constantly consolidating and developing. China and Africa have always been good brothers, good partners and good friends. Secondly, the fundamental principle of China's policy to Africa doesn't change. The core connotation of China's policy to Africa has never changed, which includes sincere friendship, equal treatment, unity, cooperation, and common progress. The nature of China-Africa relations remains unchanged. China-Africa relations are always the relations of unity and cooperation between developing countries. Although many people have already begun regarding China as a developed country, China in fact is still a developing country. Our hearts, ideas and positions always go with developing countries.
Changes do have happened. The situation has undergone profound changes in the past half century and is also manifest in three aspects:
Firstly, there are changes in the situation of different countries and the international environment. Secondly, there are great changes in the content of China-Africa cooperation. Compared with the previous, current China-Africa cooperation can be summarized by expanding fields, richer in content, innovative in form and larger on scale. For instance, economic and trade cooperation between China and Africa, different from pure economic aid and infrastructure construction, now includes investment, resource development, debt cancellation, and ongoing China-Africa Funds. Secondly, the people to people and culture exchanges have also expanded. The biggest innovation is that we have set up the Forum on China Africa Cooperation. Thirdly, the influence of China-Africa Cooperation in the international community has also seen changes. China-Africa cooperation has become a frequently discussed hot issue worldwide that western countries follow with great interest. In addition, China-Africa cooperation has encouraged other major countries to pay attention to Africa. Meanwhile, China-Africa cooperation has played an important role in the peaceful development of Africa, having contributed 20% of Africa's economic growth. Its role is incomparable with that of 1950s to 1960s.
Africa: Personally, what is your expectation for the prospects for China-Africa relations?
Lu Shaye: There are great potentials in the development of China-Africa cooperation. Firstly, it is beyond doubt that China is always taking China-Africa relations seriously. Secondly, both sides are in urgent need of strengthening strategic cooperation and the influence of China's development mode is expanding, in particular. Since the financial crisis, African countries have begun to introspect the effectiveness of the development model of western capitalism. They hope to draw on the favorable experiences from China's development. Thirdly, the development of international situation encourages China and Africa to strengthen cooperation. Now,many issues such as financial crisis, climate change and other non-traditional security threats link China with African countries more closely. These issues need to be addressed by strengthening cooperation between China and Africa. As a result, the prospects for China-Africa cooperation will become broader.
Over simplification – A Common Mistake Made by the West
Africa: In recent years, the African situation has undergone many changes. The opinions are widely divided, some positive and some negative. How do you think of it?
Lu shaye: It depends on one's standpoint and perspective. A coin has two sides. Since the beginning of the new era, generally speaking, peace and stability on the African continent is far better than that in 1990s. The majority of Africa countries have maintained political stability and some hot issues have been cooled down. As for the economy, the African economy has seen constant growth since the late 1990s at a rate of 4%-5%, which is not low. Despite of the impact of the financial crisis, Africa's economy has begun to resurge this year. In addition, African countries have strengthened unity and self-improvement. They are trying to have one voice on global issues such as international crisis and climate change etc, and they have become an important and active force on the international arena.
There are coup d' état and riots in some regions and non-traditional threats such as Somali pirates. In terms of economy, Africa's foundation is a bit weak. I believe that the biggest problem for Africa is its low industrialization level. They have consumed the money earned from exporting resources instead of investing it in production, which impedes sustainable development. We say Africa is marginalized in the process of globalization because it is not incorporated into the world industrial chain or is at the very bottom of the chain.
Africa: The western media constantly charge China of exercising neo-colonialism in Africa and exploiting African labors. Their comments on China-Africa relations are negative on the whole. What do you think of that?
Lu Shaye: In my opinion, western countries always criticize China. But in fact, they should look at themselves. They don't do as well as China does (for Africans in Africa) even today, let alone in the colonial period in the past. Examples can be found everywhere such as Western countries exploiting resources without restraint, usurping land, mining resources and engaging in destructive lumbering practices in Africa. I have seen a documentary by a western TV station about big western companies exploring African mineral resources. They made a mess and ignored the local people who had occupational diseases from mining work. When Chinese enterprises explore resources in Africa, they encounter environmental problems too. However, the Chinese government would educate and guide Chinese enterprises to follow the international conventions and rules when working with African countries. Firstly, they should observe the international practice and win projects by fair and just negotiation on the basis of business rules. Secondly, they should abide by the local laws and protect the environment during development. Thirdly, they should fulfill social responsibilities by sharing the benefits with the local community. In fact, reputable Chinese enterprises with appropriate qualifications follow the above rules in doing business in Africa. Some problems such as the low wage of workers may exist but they are not common. People should not make simple generalizations and can't regard a particular problem as common practice or politicalize economic issues. Nor should people attribute all problems to China.
The western media are either mistaken or they just do it on purpose. Whenever there is a problem, they would blame the Chinese government. People should look at issues in a comprehensive and reasonable way and on a case-by-case basis.
The Forum on China Africa Cooperation Has Made Fruitful Achievements.
Africa: This year marks the 10th Anniversary since FOCAC was established, and it is the first year of the 4th Ministerial Conference of FOCAC. What do you think of the development of FOCAC? What are the positive results of the 4th Ministerial Conference implemented? What are your plans for the future?
Lu Shaye: I should say that I have experienced 10 years of the development of FOCAC. I have participated in FOCAC since 2000 when it was set up. I have comprehensive understanding of FOCAC and profound affections for it. First of all, FOCAC is a banner that guides the development of China-Africa relations. Many policies and measures on China-Africa cooperation are brewed and implemented under the framework of FOCAC. The role of China-Africa relations has changed from a long-term new type of is stable, equal and mutually beneficial cooperation to a new type of strategic partnership.
Secondly, FOCAC is a highly effective platform for both China and Africa to have a collective dialogue. There are a number of multi-level exchange mechanisms under the FOCAC framework, ranging from ministerial level, high official conferences to exchanges between the Chinese follow-up secretariat and diplomatic missions of Africa. In general, both China and Africa maintain smooth exchanges.
Thirdly, FOCAC is an effective mechanism for China and Africa to carry out pragmatic cooperation. Since the 1st Ministerial Conference, we have proposed some pragmatic measures to promote China-Africa cooperation in each Ministerial Conference. For example, it was proposed that we cancel the debts of some African countries on the 1st Ministerial Conference. Within two years, the Chinese government cancelled 10.5 billion-yuan debts that matured in 32 most underdeveloped and debt-ridden poor African countries with no strings attached. The debt cancellation of the Chinese government is a driving force for the international community to cancel African debts.
At Beijing Summit of FOCAC 2006, President Hu Jintao, on behalf of the Chinese government, proposed eight measures to promote China-Africa cooperation. All the measures have been implemented. On the 4th Ministerial Conference of FOCAC in November 2009, Premier Wen proposed eight new measures for China's cooperation with Africa. At present, many measures are being implemented. Of these measures, debt cancellation and duty exemption have already been implemented. In addition, we have launched some new projects, such as China-Africa Cooperation and Exchange Program on Science, Technology and Culture, and China-Africa Joint Research and Exchange Program. China is seriously honoring its commitment.
Chinese Enterprises Should Safeguard National Image
Africa: In recent years, with the comprehensive and in-depth development of China-Africa cooperation on economy and trade, more and more Chinese enterprises are making investment and doing business in Africa. Is it one part of the "Go Global" strategy that is carried forward by the Chinese government? As the Director-General of the Department of African Affairs, do you have any suggestions or advice for those enterprises going to Africa?
Lu Shaye: Yes, it is a part of the "Go Global" strategy of the Chinese government. In these years, with the development of FOCAC, more and more Chinese enterprises go to Africa and do business in broader fields. Chinese enterprises have made great contributions to China-Africa cooperation.
I hope that Chinese enterprises will carry forward the fine traditions and maintain China-Africa traditional friendship in the process of development and investment. As more Chinese enterprises are going to Africa now, more criticism has occurred. Apart from the West, some African countries complain about the Chinese enterprises too. We can't sidestep this issue. As for western media's hostile stirring-up, we should refute it with convincing arguments to ensure a correct understanding of the facts. We should take the complaints made by some African countries seriously. We should do in-depth self-exam on our own problems and try to improve.
The Africa magazine is dedicated to the domestic enterprises. To be frank, our enterprises should pay attention to the national image rather than focusing on their own profits when they make investment and do business in Africa. African people view China through Chinese enterprises and Chinese people. It's quite simple that if Chinese enterprises are good, Africans will think China good and vice versa. Our enterprises must take notice of it.
What should these enterprises do? In my opinion, first of all, an enterprise must have the sense of social responsibility, observe laws and disciplines and present good corporate image and staff image when it is doing business in Africa. Some western media criticize Chinese companies for sending domestic prisoners to Africa. Of course, it is the West that intentionally distorts the fact. However, our enterprises and our workers should pay attention to their behavior and appearance and not forget that they represent China when they work in Africa. Secondly, an enterprise should be honest and keep its word. Thirdly, enterprise should pay attention to equality and mutual benefits. They should give consideration to Africans' interests and take on social responsibility such as creating jobs for the local people and improving their working conditions etc. Fourthly, it's security. Now many Chinese enterprises go to Africa and security-related accidents have increased. Therefore Chinese enterprises should have awareness for security and risk prevention and should strengthen risk prevention according to different situations in different countries. Meanwhile enterprises should keep close contact with Chinese embassies in the host countries so that they can get advice and help and avoid taking the wrong turn.
Chinese People Should Have a "Great Power Mentality"
Africa: We have just made a special plan on reporting on the low quality products in Africa. What do you think of the problems that have happened to "Made in China" in Africa?
Lu Shaye: I have read these articles carefully and the comments are generally positive. Low quality products do exist and we should face the problem rather than neglecting it. I have noticed that the articles have analyzed the reason for the issue. In fact the problems are not caused by Chinese enterprises only but they still should attach more importance to the problems.
Chinese enterprises should cherish their image overseas. Once the image is ruined, it's difficult to restore it. We expose problems in order to solve them. I suggest that your magazine offer these enterprises some advice. You should have some in-dept reports like these, which will evoke some repercussions.
In addition, I believe that China is developing and it is becoming strong. As a result, our mentality should also change. We should have the "great power mentality". The "great power mentality" I am talking about is the broadmindedness of a big nation rather than "to be condescending" or "the big bullying the small". We should treat our weaknesses with a broad mind rather than hiding or sidestepping the problems.
Africa: Africa is the first monthly Chinese magazine that introduces Africa systemically and comprehensively. The aim of the magazine is to offer assistance to Chinese people who are going to make investment, do business, travel or explore local conditions and customs in Africa. Could you please give us some suggestions and tell us your expectations from us?
Lu Shaye: I have read some issues. Designed novel, this magazine is beautifully printed and highly readable. As the goal of your magazine is to assist Chinese enterprises and people to understand or go to Africa, your special perspective gives you a favorable opportunity. I hope you will work hard towards the goal and make your magazine even better in the future.
