Editor's Note
Elegantly dressed in formal attire, there's a group of people, who always actively engage in important diplomatic and foreign affairs events. Despite their busy schedule, they take time to explore the vibrant streets and alleys of Beijing, immersing themselves in the history and cultural allure of this modern metropolis. Who are they? They are ambassadors representing over 170 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, South America and Oceania, in China.
Curious about their impressions of Beijing? Which popular tourist attractions have they visited, and what cuisines do they like? Do they prefer unwinding at a cafe in Sanlitun, cycling along the riverbanks, or taking leisurely strolls after work? Moreover, what messages do they wish to convey to the people of Beijing?
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia. This time, we visited the Zambian Embassy in China. Let's hear the insights of Ambassador Ivan Zyuulu as he shares his perspectives on Beijing.
Roots running deep in Beijing
For H.E. Ambassador Ivan Zyuulu, the journey as the Ambassador to China began in August last year. However, his connection with Beijing actually started much earlier, from a brief but memorable four-day visit to China back in 2018. That quick encounter left him with a lasting impression of the city, hinting at a deep, almost fated connection. It was this unfinished exploration that led him back to Beijing five years later.
“I really enjoy wandering around Beijing,” he told reporters. Beyond his professional obligations, he cherishes the moments spent walking along the Liangma River or indulging in shopping sprees at popular spots like Xidan Joy City and Solana Mall. These everyday life activities have not only helped deepen his understanding of the life of Beijing’s residents, but also enabled him to experience firsthand the city’s welcoming inclusiveness and its dynamic evolution.
He noted that in just five years, “Beijing has undergone significant changes in transportation, architectural landscape, cultural tourism offerings, and other aspects, all of which are worthy of applause.” When asked to encapsulate his impression of the city in one sentence, he summarized it as “a lovely, admirable, and immensely appealing place.”
Fallen in love with Beijing’s winter
Zambia is the first nation in Southern Africa to establish diplomatic ties with China. Due to the tropical savanna climate, the daily average temperature of the capital city Lusaka can reach as high as 31℃. Despite coming from such a perennially warm country, the Zambian Ambassador found an unexpected passion for Beijing’s winter. “In the past few months, Beijing’s weather in winter has been very different from my country. I like the cold weather and the snow. On snowy days, I didn’t go skiing or do winter sports like other young people. Instead, I was having fun building snowmen in the yard” , he said. As for Beijing Hot Pot, a perfect fit for the chilling season, and the “winter-only” Tanghulu (sugar-coated fruit skewers), he enjoys them very much, and will have more in the future.
Strengthen exchanges and cooperation
Ambassador Zyuulu is fascinated by autonomous driving. He took a test ride in a self-driving vehicle in Beijing and found the journey smooth and safe. Before the ride, he was a little bit worried that the car might “hit the wall”. However, as the car flawlessly navigated the streets and turned through intersections, he was amazed by what AI holds in store for us. Ambassador Zyuulu believes that learning from China will benefit Zambia greatly. He said that China is currently Zambia’s largest export market, and expressed hope for expanded cooperation between China and Zambia in various areas including trade and investment, as well as closer people-to-people exchanges.
An invitation to experience Zambia’s distinctive tribal cultures
Ambassador Zyuulu extended a series of heartfelt invitations throughout the interview.“Zambia is a vibrant mosaic of different tribes and ethnic groups, each with its unique cultural heritage, as reflected in a rich variety of traditional songs, dances, and ceremonial rituals,” he noted. The Ambassador also invited Beijing’ residents to discover the natural wonders of his country.“Zambia is one the most beautiful places in the world,” he remarked, adding that “Zambia enjoys a good climate, and boasts the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls and Lake Tanganyika. At Kafue National Park, you will have opportunities to encounter diverse wildlife, from lions to giraffes and elephants, which roams freely in the park, all awaiting your exploration.”
