Moscow: China's efforts to push for a multipolar world, not least through initiatives such as building a community with a shared future for mankind and the Global Civilization Initiative, are rooted in a deep understanding about the global landscape, a Russian sinologist has said. Maria Semenyuk, associate professor at the department of Chinese philology in Moscow State University's Institute of Asian and African studies, shared her insights in a recent interview.

According to Namibia Press Agency, Semenyuk emphasized that China's initiatives are based on a profound comprehension of the current international scenario and resonate with the aspirations of not just the Chinese people, but also those from many other countries. She noted a strong positive response to these initiatives in Russia and several Global South countries.

The importance of these concepts and initiatives lies in China's relentless efforts to create a new development trajectory for countries and civilizations. These efforts focus on drawing from historical and cultural experiences to ensure modernization that respects cultural identity. Semenyuk stressed the need for exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations to foster mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing the importance of a "closeness of hearts."

Semenyuk, who has been involved in translating Chinese literature for over 15 years, expressed her delight at the growing presence of Chinese books in Russian bookstores. She highlighted that these books are increasingly seen as relevant and interesting by Russian readers. Additionally, she mentioned ongoing plans for new projects in mutual translation and cultural exchanges between Russia and China.

China introduced the Global Civilization Initiative in 2023, and Semenyuk views the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting held in Beijing on July 10-11 as a significant event in the current global context. She remarked that the meeting signaled a unified desire among the world's civilizations for peace, development, equality, justice, democracy, and freedom.

Semenyuk underscored the need to replace ideological confrontations with practical efforts towards rapprochement, mutual exchange, and the creation of a global dialogue network to effectively address the challenges of the new era. She described the current international situation as fraught with instability and contradictions. In light of this, the principles of the Global Civilization Initiative, which advocate for dialogue among civilizations and respect for diversity, are particularly relevant.