Source: CCTV.com
11-11-2007 13:29
Special Report: 2007 CCTV Cup ESCUnity and Diversity -- Creating a Balanced World
In ancient times, our entire world was divided by different geographical locations, different races, different cultures and customs. People around the world were isolated from each other due to the lack of modern communications and means of public transportation. The world was characterized by diversity. Then with the rapid development of science and technology, dealings and business transactions between our people become more and more frequent, and we are making more contact and engaging in more communications with the outside world. It seems the world is going toward a unity.
In this process, we’re trying to iron out our differences and do our best to have much more in common in a spirit of mutual respect and trust. Therefore, we’ve reached a certain sense of unity on a global scale. In recent years, as globalization is in full swing, the world is more connected through a global economy that has created more opportunities for global villagers, and we’re inclined to be bound together by the common values, dreams and norms.
As it stands, the diverse cultures of minority people, their languages, their ways of life, their traditions and customs are challenged by the onslaught of such a global trend and are in danger of extinction.
Take our nation as an example. China is home to 56 nationalities, but today, the rich cultures of these people cannot resist the invasion of modern culture. As more and more McDonalds, pop music and Hollywood blockbusters permeate our daily lives, fewer and fewer voices of these cultures can be heard. In this regard, unity stands in sharp conflict with diversity.
However, I want to mention that these two seemingly opposite things are not contradictory to each other and they can co-exist at the same time.
The great vision of “One country, two systems,” proposed by the late leader Deng Xiaoping, is a perfect example that demonstrates such a possibility. Hong Kong and Macau are different but inseparable entities of our national unity. They are part of China, but they maintain their own economic and political systems, local cultures, traditions, and ways of life. In spite of that, people in the mainland can live in peace and harmony with those in both places. Although we’re united as one, we have differences, and we keep our own diverse characteristics.
Going toward unity seems to be the trend, but let’s bear in mind to retain a world of diversity for us and for the future generation so that they can live happily, abundantly and harmoniously in a balanced colorful world.
So let us join our hands together and create a better world in which our posterity can lead good lives!
Thank you!
Editor:Yang Jie
