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?
To explore these questions, the Beijing Municipal Foreign Affairs has partnered with Beijing Daily and Beijing Radio & Television Station to create the "Beijing in the Eyes of Ambassadors" series. In today's edition, we will take you to the Embassy of El Salvador, and meet with H.E. Luis Oswaldo López Álvarez, the newly-appointed Ambassador of El Salvador to China. Let's hear his stories about Beijing!
Falling in Love with Beijing at First Sight
The Embassy of El Salvador in China is situated to the north side of Chang'an Avenue, separated by a single wall from the bustling Xiushui Street. At the scheduled time, journalists walked into the embassy, where sunlight poured into the hall, mingling with the faint aroma of coffee to create a cozy autumn ambiance.
The interview took place exactly one month after Ambassador López presented his credentials. "I must say that I arrived in Beijing at the best time of the year. The city is absolutely beautiful in autumn. You could say it was love at first sight," he said. The embassy is conveniently located near Ritan Park, a popular spot for people to unwind and enjoy the outdoors. Ambassador López enjoys taking leisurely strolls there after lunch. He finds the park, with its beauty and tranquility, a great sanctuary away from his busy work schedule.
Besides Ritan Park, Ambassador López has also visited the Temple of Heaven, where he learned how the ancient Chinese incorporated their cultural belief of "round heaven covering the square earth like a dome" into imperial architecture. He expressed a desire to visit more historical and cultural landmarks, emphasizing that seeing just the Temple of Heaven isn't enough. When asked which site tops his list, Ambassador López replied without hesitation, "definitely the Great Wall!"
For Ambassador López, climbing the Great Wall has been a dream since childhood. "Who hasn't had a dream of visiting the Great Wall growing up?" He added that even people who have never been to China know about the Great Wall. "I am aware that people worldwide, including many in our own country, aspire to see it in person."
El Salvador and China are separated by the vast Pacific Ocean, over ten thousand kilometers apart. Ambassador López sees his ambassadorship as a great opportunity to fulfill his long-held dream, and a remarkable experience in his life.
Fostering Cooperation for the Benefits of the People
China and El Salvador established formal diplomatic relations in 2018, opening a new chapter in their bilateral exchanges. As the capitals, Beijing and San Salvador have led the way in implementing agreements made by their heads of state. In 2019, the two cities signed a MoU on friendly exchanges, paving the way for closer cooperation.
During the interview, Ambassador López said, "China is an example of resilience," explaining that El Salvador is striving to achieve its own economic miracle. He said, "China is a great country, and the cooperation between our two countries is growing stronger each year." For example, the most modern and advanced public library of Latin America is built in El Salvador with the support of China, and the library's importance lies in the fact that, "people in El Salvador will know something about China (through reading) despite the vast distance."
Ambassador López also highlighted some other forward-looking cooperation projects, noting that such partnerships can create jobs, benefit the people, and change lives. San Salvador has previously introduced street sweepers and sprinklers manufactured by Beijing Environment Sanitation Engineering Group. Speaking of which, the ambassador praised Beijing for setting a great example in environmental management.
Cultural and artistic exchanges represent another passion for Ambassador López. He proudly introduced the unique paintings and handicrafts displayed at the embassy, and showcased the picture album featuring historical and cultural heritage sites of El Salvador. "We have a vibrant and colorful culture, and we want to share it with you, and residents of Beijing," said the ambassador. When asked about the detailed plans, he replied, "We have a lot of plans. For example, we would like to host an art exhibition for artists from El Salvador here in Beijing. That's part of my plans for the next year."
Ambassador López believes that, one of his key responsibilities is to facilitate cultural exchanges and understanding. To fully embrace his life in Beijing, the ambassador has started learning Chinese, and can now say some basic phrases like "nihao" (hello) and "xiexie" (thanks). He told the journalists that even though he doesn't speak much Chinese, people always find a way to help him, which makes him feel at home.
Winning Consumers' Hearts with Quality Products
Blessed with exceptional climate and geographical conditions, El Salvador is renowned for its coffee, honey, tropical fruits and a diverse selection of liquors. "I know that Chinese consumers would like to buy the best, so we are bringing some of our best products to China," said the ambassador. During this year's China International Import Expo, the Salvadoran coffee and liquors were highly sought after.
Ambassador López told the journalists that El Salvador's Pacamara coffee is grown in volcanic soil, enriched with the essences of tropical fruits and floral notes, resulting in a rich aroma and a uniquely distinctive taste. "You will know it's good when you taste it," the ambassador assured.
At the embassy, the ambassador invited the journalists to taste some juice produced in El Salvador, mentioning that these products are already available on China's online shopping platforms such as Taobao. When asked about the product that he most recommends, the ambassador immediately held up a bottle of Tic Tack, a Salvadoran liquor that has been passed down through generations. He explained that, what sets this drink apart is its unique distillation process using coconut water, giving it a rare fruity flavor unlike any other liquor.
Welcoming More Visitors from Beijing to the "Land of Smiles"
"The Salvadoran people give their best at work, just like the Chinese people," said the ambassador, emphasizing his country's dedication to providing excellent services to visitors. He used words like "embrace" to describe his homeland, often referred to as the "Land of Smiles", welcoming all tourists with open arms.
Ambassador López extended a warm invitation to Beijing citizens to visit El Salvador. "You can start the day with pupusas, a traditional type of tortillas stuffed with cheese, pork and beans. For lunch, you can have a special meal by the Santa Ana volcano, followed by a cup of local coffee. After that, you can drive to the beach for the stunning sunset", the ambassador recommended, "I strongly encourage you to learn more about my country, not only because it is my homeland but also because it is truly beautiful."
