On the eve of the 2026 China-Europe Talent Forum, which convened in Beijing on September 21, German writer and political adviser Frederic Todenhöfer sat down with China Today Salon for his first in-depth interview during his maiden trip to China. Known for reporting from conflict zones alongside his father, former German parliamentarian Jürgen Todenhöfer, he brings a unique perspective on bridging divides – not through policy papers, but through human interaction.
In an opinion piece for China Today, Todenhöfer, who is also general secretary of the Justice Party – Team Todenhöfer, explained why he believes China is extraordinarily close to Germany in everyday life yet still feels distant. The only way to close this gap he says is by going China, seeing for yourself, and meeting people who defy your assumptions.
That principle, taught by his father, has guided his career. On this trip, he aims to talk with individuals from all walks of life to build a fuller picture. “This is not something I can do in just one trip,” he admits, pledging to return often.
Todenhöfer argues that the distance Europeans feel toward China is not due to a lack of information, but a lack of emotion. “We have China in our clothes, our technology, our cars,” he notes. Yet media coverage focuses overwhelmingly on trade disputes, security concerns, and competition – topics that breed mistrust rather than connection. What’s missing, he says, are personal stories that create an emotional bond.
He recalls growing up in Germany immersed in American culture through television, which fostered a sense of familiarity. With China, such cultural exposure is absent. “We need more human exchange,” he urges. “When Chinese students come to Germany or Germans go to China, we should not stay in our own bubble.”
At forums like the China-Europe Talent Forum, the real value lies not only in official speeches but in spontaneous interactions – over coffee, dinner, or shared cab rides. “These connections are the important ones,” he emphasizes.
On European media, Todenhöfer calls for diverse perspectives. “We need journalists to go, see, and shed light from different angles,” he says, criticizing the regurgitation of a single Western narrative. Listening to all sides doesn’t mean agreement, but it’s essential for understanding complex issues.
Arriving in China, he held assumptions of a closed society. Instead, he found openness. “People are open to discussion, open to listening, and open to sharing their stories,” he says, surprised.
Looking ahead, Todenhöfer is optimistic about the younger generation. New translation tools will ease language barriers, enabling direct exchanges. “When people truly know each other, it becomes much harder to create division,” he reflects.
As he attends the forum, Todenhöfer looks forward to meeting diverse talented individuals and gathering fresh perspectives. His message is clear: in an era of geopolitical tension, human connection remains the most powerful bridge.
