As 2024 draws to a close, Uwe Kräuter marks an incredible milestone: five decades in the Chinese mainland. Often hailed as the \"Marco Polo of our times,\" Kräuter's journey began in 1974 when a two-year stint in Beijing unexpectedly turned into a lifelong odyssey.
Kräuter's fascination with China was sparked by his grandfather, a sailor who shared captivating stories of the country. This childhood curiosity led him to major in sociology at Heidelberg University, where a chance opportunity arose to work with the Foreign Languages Press in Beijing.
\"Life here was so different from back home as a foreigner. But I want to say: From the beginning, there was never any Chinese in the streets who disliked the presence of a foreigner,\" Kräuter reflects.
In the 1980s, Kräuter was instrumental in bringing China's classic drama Teahouse to European audiences. Serving as the simultaneous translator for around 60 roles, he helped stage the play in Germany, Switzerland, and France, turning the team into heroes upon their return to China.
Beyond cultural exchanges, Kräuter's personal life intertwined with his professional journey. In 1984, he married Shen Danping, a renowned Chinese actress, navigating the challenges of cross-border marriages during a time when such unions were rare in the Chinese mainland.
Throughout his half-century in China, Kräuter has witnessed the nation's transformation into the world's second-largest economy. \"Life has modernized significantly. People are more open and accustomed to foreigners, fostering closer connections,\" he notes. Kräuter hopes that this spirit of openness and mutual understanding will continue to thrive.
Uwe Kräuter's story is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and the enduring bonds it can create between nations. His legacy continues to inspire young global citizens, business enthusiasts, thought leaders, and travelers around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
