In a recent interview, esteemed scholars from around the globe shared their insights on the concepts of “Harmony and Integration” and the “Great Unity” as potential solutions to contemporary global challenges.

The world is currently experiencing extraordinary changes, prompting questions such as, “What is happening globally, and how should we respond?” Chinese President Xi Jinping has articulated that addressing shared challenges requires nations to embrace cooperation over isolation. He emphasizes that true progress is achieved through collaboration and coexistence among varying civilizations. In his recent global civilization initiative, Xi underscored the importance of different cultures learning from one another as essential for the modernization of human society.

An Lezhe, a prominent American sinologist who received the Special Contribution Award at the 17th Chinese Book Awards for his efforts to promote civilizational exchange between the U.S. and China, highlighted that China’s impressive growth does not equate to a loss of patience or openness toward the rest of the world. He explained that the essence of “Harmony and Integration” is rooted in the principle of “harmony without uniformity,” advocating for a system that encourages coexistence in diversity.

An criticized the zero-sum mindset, which views situations strictly as winner-takes-all, as insufficient for addressing today’s urgent challenges. He argued that Confucian ideals of self-cultivation and moral values derived from familial relationships offer crucial insights for building a new global order that fosters a sense of community among all nations.

Echoing An’s viewpoint, Greek scholar Yi Donglan noted that China’s vast cultural legacy could provide significant guidance in tackling the “questions of our times” and the “questions of the world.” Yi remarked that, in Chinese philosophy, circumstances are rarely characterized by “either/or” choices; rather, they often accommodate multiple perspectives simultaneously. He stressed that acknowledging diverse values, viewpoints, and goals serves as a foundation for negotiation and adaptation, which is vital for navigating current global discussions on pressing issues.

Icelandic scholar Baldursson, known for being the first to translate the Analects into Icelandic, recalled his translation efforts from the 1990s. He reflected on the challenge of translating the phrase “The gentleman harmonizes but does not conform,” explaining that “harmonize” conveys meanings of both harmony and inclusiveness. In Icelandic, he translated it as “Hefearmenn vinna samanántess ae vera samsinna,” which suggests that while opinions may vary, cooperation remains possible. He advocated for this principle on a global scale, encouraging nations to engage in dialogue, collaboration, and trade in the spirit of globalization.

Hassan Ragab, an Egyptian sinologist and director of the Confucius Institute at Suez Canal University, highlighted the commonalities between Egyptian and Chinese cultures, particularly in terms of civilizational continuity and collaboration. He noted that a hallmark of Chinese culture is its focus on understanding, respecting, and caring for one another. Ragab emphasized China’s role in supporting Africa’s industrial ambitions, job creation, and enhancing economic structures in Arab nations.

French sinologist Zong Shuren reflected on the Chinese vision of a “world as one” and the ideal of “Great Unity.” He explained that this concept, originating from the “Li Ji,” envisions a harmonious society free of conflict and disparity, representing the highest aspirations of ancient Chinese society.

“This ideal is not just valued by the Chinese; it is a universal aspiration,” Zong noted. The notion of “Great Unity” resonates deeply across cultures, embodying the dream of a harmonious world. He also stressed that China’s rich historical experience in embracing diversity and mutual respect provides valuable lessons for Western societies.

Together, these scholars affirm that the principles of “Harmony and Integration” and “Great Unity” could serve as guiding principles for navigating the complexities and challenges of our times.