Cultural exchanges 'can improve understanding'

　　And among the other attractions, Rodionov was drawn to China's rich literary heritage, especially the Four Classic Books (The Great Learning, The Doctrine of the Mean, The Analects of Confucius, Mencius), the Five Classics of Chinese Writing (The Book of Songs, The Book of History, The Book of Changes, The Book of Rites, The Spring and Autumn Annals) and the Poems of the Tang (AD 618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties. He was drawn, too, to the great men of letters of the last century, such as Lao She (1899-1966) and Cao Yu (1910-1996).

　　He delved into modern Chinese literature and spent a lot of time studying the life and works of Lao She. "I realized that I must learn about Chinese culture before I could understand and evaluate the behavior of the Chinese and their thoughts," he said.

　　He also realized that, "although the Russians are psychologically closer to the Chinese than other Westerners, they still weigh China on European cultural standards' scales which may lead to misunderstanding".

　　Rodionov conceded that the Chinese know much more about Russia than vice versa. "In the 20th century, China was the country that did the most to introduce foreign cultures into its own, and Russian culture was a favorite with Chinese intellectuals, especially in the 1920s-30s and 1950s-60s."

　　He acknowledged that there was mistrust between the two peoples, especially those doing business across the border. But again, these people lacked cultural education and were unable to understand and accept the other's customs.

　　"The Chinese working and studying in St Petersburg or Moscow are much more respected," he said. What do the Chinese think about the Russians? The Chinese he has worked and talked with are very friendly, he said, although he knows many Chinese are not happy with the way they are treated in Russia.

　　"But I believe Chinese friends will become increasingly satisfied with their studies, life and work in Russia," he said.

　　"The way to do away with mistrust and overcome injustice is speak out and open the topics for discussion," Rodionov said.