The recent discussions between China and the European Union, coupled with China’s insights into key issues between the two regions, should prompt our attention and contemplation. This relationship involves two of the world’s oldest civilizations, each with undeniable global influences and centuries-old interconnections. Despite this extensive shared history, it seems that building a true community between the two ends of Eurasia is a task for the future.
Several challenges impede the establishment of such a community. Firstly, Europe, not being a single country or nation, struggles with maintaining a unified front due to internal dissensions among its member states. Secondly, there is a prevailing sense of mistrust in Europe towards China, influenced by declining European influence, the persistent dominance of American influence, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis.
Efforts must be made to re-establish contact, with patience being a key requirement. Over-interpreting anti-Chinese statements within European institutions should be avoided, considering the influence of American diplomacy and an outdated perspective of world balance.
The foundation of the China-Europe relationship, while encompassing political, diplomatic, geostrategic, and economic aspects, requires a solid base for mutual understanding. The humanities, unfortunately overshadowed by sciences and engineering in Sino-European inter-university exchanges, can provide this foundation. Chinese history, art, literature, and philosophy are still underrepresented in European universities, hindering the development of a robust mutual understanding.
Europe and China are heirs to an understanding of humanity and of how to bring human beings to themselves (which is the very meaning of culture). Unfortunately, the big losers in Sino-European inter-university exchanges are still the humanities, even though they represent the healthiest foundation, since they are not subject to the fluctuating interests of international competition. The lion’s share still goes to science and engineering, even though these are sectors subject to numerous dangers and threats, which can provoke many quarrels and disagreements.
Unfortunately, Chinese history, art, literature, or philosophy are still under-represented in European universities. These disciplines, which form the basis of the humanities, are almost always confined to foreign language departments or relatively marginalized Sinological research institutes.
Enhancing cooperation in the humanities emerges as a necessary step to establish a mutually beneficial and enduring relationship between China and Europe. A collaborative effort involving researchers and professors from both regions to address common issues and study shared topics is essential.
Despite differences, the profound appreciation for cultural heritage shared by China and Europe forms the basis for a deep-rooted cultural affinity, with the humanities serving as the vital essence of this shared legacy. This collaborative approach can lead to a sense of research community and pave the way for a new spiritual understanding between the two ancient civilizations.
