Reference News Network, July 23 report: Germany's "Focus" weekly website published an article on July 20 analyzing why China has suddenly become the preferred destination for German tourists. The author of the article is Alexander Graehl. The following is a translated version of the article:

Until recently, traveling to China was a tedious affair involving bureaucracy — now all it takes is a passport. The United States under Trump is isolating itself, while Beijing is launching a charm offensive.

The Chinese government announced a unilateral visa-free policy for German citizens, which came as a real surprise to me. Now, you can travel within China for 30 days, and all you need is a valid passport!

My journey began in the megacity of Chongqing with millions of people, then I went to the ancient city of Xi'an, where the shocking Terracotta Warriors lie dormant. After that, I went to Zhangjiajie, the mysterious mountain city famous for the movie "Avatar." The end of my journey was in the central Chinese city of Wuhan.

The customs officers were very friendly, and the entry and exit experience was very pleasant. The Chinese smiled at me, especially the children who happily communicated with me in English they had learned at school.

In my opinion, China does not seem to be overwhelmed by international tourists (the visa-free regulation also applies to many other countries besides Germany).

The Chinese government decided to take this measure to open up China as a tourist destination and make it more attractive. It is a charm offensive aimed at enhancing China's soft power. This is completely different from the United States under Trump.

I have just returned to Europe after living in the United States for 10 years. Despite having a valid visa and documents, since Trump took office, every time I entered the United States, I have been anxious: afraid of being denied entry, deported, or even jailed. After all, I spent three years at Harvard University, which Trump strongly despises, and later taught democratic theory at New York University for three years.

In my career, I have never hesitated to criticize China, just as I have never hesitated to criticize the United States, Germany, Israel, or any other country. I can enter China smoothly. However, if the customs officers find meme images mocking Trump or US Vice President Vance on your phone, you cannot enter the United States. Freedom of speech in the United States? It's dead!

My observation is that the Chinese work very hard. Regardless, I have not encountered excessive state control in my daily life, nor have I felt monitored during my travels. Cameras are everywhere, but so are they in Seoul and London.

At least one benefit of numerous cameras: they no longer take pictures of instant speeding on highways, but instead calculate the average speed over a certain distance. This average must not exceed the speed limit. I hope Germany can do the same!

The number of tourists going to the United States is declining. Trump is still doing his best to reduce the attractiveness of the United States as a destination for international students and immigrants. What will be left of the United States after Trump? Experts agree that this president is causing lasting damage to his country. The United States may become poorer, and thus its appeal to global talent will also decline. (Translated by Nie Litaotao)

On April 27, in the Jiayuguan Pass scenic area, the "pass commander" (left) made a "guardian" for two German tourists. (Xinhua News Agency)

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7530104345526878754/

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