"What you do not wish for yourself, do not impose on others." This line by ancient Chinese philosopher Confucius is favored by many in the world, including Onyekwelu Patrick Chinazam, a Nigerian student studying in Qufu Normal University, Jining, the hometown of Confucius in east China's Shandong Province.
In a video introducing Jining's efforts in spreading Confucianism, the 27-year-old young man, together with other foreign students in Jining, express their enthusiasm for the ancient Chinese wisdom and share how the Chinese philosophy is helping them on their paths of life.
The video tells how Confucianism, a philosophy that has guided the Chinese nation for thousands of years, is now expanding its positive influence globally. And Jining plays a big part in the international dissemination of Confucianism.
The city has attracted thousands of international students who appreciate the charm of the ancient Chinese philosophy. They go to Jining from afar for Confucianism studies and believe the philosophy teaches them how they should perceive themselves and deal with their relations with others.
According to the video, the city's Qufu Normal University, in particular, has well inherited Confucian traditions and is a witness and contributor to the development of Confucianism in modern times. It has recruited a number of international students from the U.S., Russia and Tajikistan in recent years, and has built itself into an international hub of Confucianism studies.
Today's Jining has also become a popular destination for international tourists who want to follow the steps of the great philosopher. According to the local tourism authority, the city received around 300,000 foreign visitors annually between 2009 and 2019, generating tourism revenue of over $80 million on an annual basis.