I think that this is the core of the strength of a culture that has endured through five thousand years. Intimidating? Perhaps, but a culture is an evolving entity. Whenever you use your chopsticks in a Chinese restaurant, or in any oriental restaurant, the culture of China is opening itself to you.

The demonization of China will estrange the Chinese from the West and place distance between peoples.

Please, let us speak to each other!

We have a sincere message to offer to you: Between our countries, between our peoples, we, the Chinese students, want no part in a conflict that is POINTLESS, AND THAT SERVES NO PURPOSE!

Possessing elements of both cultures, we wish to be a bridge, a channel of communication between two peoples. We will speak to you of the feelings and hopes of the people of China, and we will take to China the goodwill of people of France. Trust me, this bridge will be a solid structure, now more than ever, now when it is needed more than ever, in a situation as critical as the present.

Hear me, my French friends, I welcome you to my home – yes, even those who wish only to create strife in Beijing. We will offer the same warm welcome to you all.

To Beijing then, my good friends… Thank you! Thank you sincerely!

(China.org.cn translated by John Sexton & David Ferguson April 21, 2008)