China is at a different stage of development, human rights are violated here much more often. And still, we see improvements even here.

Even if there have been setbacks during these past years, China is changing. China's society is opening.

To express yourself needs a reason, but expressing yourself is the reason.

Historically, China is not a nation of sportsmen. We traditionally put more emphasis on being close to nature than pushing endlessly to excel. A philosophy that values tranquil contemplation of the landscape cannot easily be adapted to the Olympic slogan of 'higher, stronger, faster.'

Society becomes very destructive.

At the moment about 350,000 students return to China from abroad each year - 350,000 young and educated people. I know about them because they know me and often ask me in the street if they can take a selfie with me. These folks are creative and ironic, and the government can ultimately not control what is going on in their heads.

I never think any place is better than others.