In late August, a delegation of 21 Brazilian journalists visited Beijing, Wuhan and Chengdu on a trip organized by the International Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. Their visit provided a rich learning experience, with visits to communication institutions, hi-tech companies, universities, research centers and iconic tourist spots.

One aspect the group found particularly striking was how technology is already part of daily life for the Chinese. "'The future in China' is a bit of a funny phrase because the Chinese future is already now," said Heloisa Villela, an independent journalist.

Villela highlighted how life in major Chinese cities is facilitated by technological solutions, such as battery exchange stations for electric bikes. "China is streamlining life for many workers, especially delivery people," she said, also emphasizing her sense of safety on China's streets.

Villela also noted the government's concern about children's screen time. In recent years, a program has been implemented that limits children's access to online games during school hours. "While this may sound like strict control, many Brazilian parents would likely appreciate something similar, as excessive screen time is a global issue," she said.

Miguel do Rosário from news magazine Revista Fórum expressed his admiration for the sophistication of China's state media. "It is very sophisticated, always willing to answer our questions and break many of the prejudices about China that resonate in the West. The state, often seen in the West as incapable of bringing innovation and excellence, executes this masterfully in its media in China."

For many journalists, the harmony between modernity and the preservation of tradition was a recurring theme. Cintia Alves, editor of independent journalism outlet Jornal GGN, was fascinated by the balance between technological advancement and respect for China's ancient culture. "The word I heard most was 'harmony.' China is open to foreign journalists, as long as there is the humility to understand it in its entirety."

In Chengdu, Villela was impressed by the city's modernity, which has undergone rapid growth over the past decade. The journalists participated in the opening of the Silk Road International Media Forum. "It's a project aimed at strengthening relations," she said.

Beijing left a deep impression on Tainá Farfan, a reporter for Record, one of the top Brazilian TV networks, who described it as an example of how technology and nature can coexist. "Beijing is a first-world city, with clean rivers and green spaces," she noted.

Do Rosário was also impressed by the size and sophistication of the companies the group visited. "These are strategic companies, making a difference and committed to China's opening-up policy, not only in their business transactions but also to us as visitors as well. I felt like a tourist visiting landmarks, given their willingness to explain what the companies do."

Alves emphasized the importance of such experiences for understanding China. "Although China is a prominent topic, we know little about its internal politics. I left fascinated by the investment in the future, technology and innovation—something we don't see in Brazil."

The experience of the Brazilian journalists in China underscored the importance of greater exchange between the two countries, both technologically and culturally, demonstrating that the future has already arrived for China—and there is much to share with Brazil.

The author is an editorial consultant for China Hoje, a Portuguese-language digital quarterly magazine 

Copyedited by G.P. Wilson 

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