For years, I refused to go to any openings, not even my own.

The biggest obstacle in interacting with China is the difference in perspectives about basic values. These include issues such as human rights, the concept of law and constitution.

We grew up in a very material-lacking socialist society, but today China is a capitalist society. It's very materialistic. It's full of desire and luxury goods.

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.'

I think optimism is whether you are still exhilarated by life, whether you are curious, whether you still believe there is possibility.

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

Everyone thinks the Chinese government selected me. Never ever. I was selected by Herzog and de Meuron.