France and China: Friendship, the Olympic spirit, and a shared future

Editor's note: David Gosset, a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative. He is the editor of China and the World in three volumes, and the creator of the Inspiring Series, a collection of books that aims to introduce China to the world. The article reflects the author's opinions and not necessarily the views of CGTN.

One often partially quotes Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the International Olympic Committee and known as the father of the modern Olympic Games: "The important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win, but to take part; the important thing in life is not triumph, but the struggle; the essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well." He continued, "to spread these principles is to build up a strong, more valiant, and above all, a more scrupulous and generous humanity." Yes, when they are not corrupted, sport in general and the Olympics in particular are a source of fraternity.

The 2024 Summer Olympics is an international multi-sport event taking place from July 24 to August 11, 2024, in France. Paris is the main host city, with events also being held in 16 additional cities across Metropolitan France, and one venue in Tahiti, French Polynesia. Having previously hosted the Games in 1900 and 1924, Paris becomes the second city ever to host the Summer Olympics three times – after London.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, and the Olympic Games presents another opportunity for the two countries to strengthen their bond and, by doing so, foster a cooperative spirit driven by the imperative of global progress. In the days following the opening ceremony, I have received several messages from Chinese friends who appreciated the spectacular show that was distinctly Parisian.

The Seine River, along with its bridges, Paris rooftops, and several city landmarks, provided a unique backdrop that was both cinematic and photographic, flowing like a watercourse yet standing immobile like a monument. I believe that, around the globe, it was the magic of the City of Light that was felt – a magic that shines brightest when it connects with the world.

When China hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 2008, renowned Chinese director Zhang Yimou's creation left the world in awe, with some elements becoming iconic. I'm sure many of us remember the majestic sound of 2008 drummers all beating in unison at the Beijing Olympics opening ceremony. Similarly, some of the moments from the opening ceremony in Paris are likely to become visual icons over time. These pop culture icons do not divide us; rather, they bring us closer together through shared narratives and memories.

Anyone who watched the 1980 Games in Russia vividly remembers Misha, the Russian bear mascot, while Muhammad Ali lighting the flame at the 1996 Games in the U.S. remains a profoundly moving moment for all who witnessed it. In a sense, one could argue that the universal appeal of the Games not only challenges the de-globalization theory but, on the contrary, shows that the Olympics are a catalyst for globalization.

The Games are popular events, and they are fundamentally about the athletes. In Paris, 10,500 athletes are competing in 32 sports. Five hundred and seventy three French athletes and 405 Chinese sportsmen and sportswomen have the chance to meet, though they inevitably compete against each other. Regardless of the outcomes, their participation represents a significant exercise in international communication. While competition is inherent, with winners and losers, it is conducted under universally accepted rules and imbued with the Olympic spirit.

We all have a favorite sport – one that we either practice ourselves, find more interesting than others, or consider more aesthetically appealing. It is worth noting that there is an aesthetic component to sport, as highlighted by the ancient Greeks, who created the Olympics 29 centuries ago. The famous sculpture by Myron, the Discobolus, illustrates both the Olympics and the ideal of beauty in classical Greece. And, like beauty, sport has the power to unite.

While visiting France in May 2024, Chinese President Xi Jinping attended the closing ceremony of the sixth meeting of the China-France Business Council. On this occasion, he defined the Olympic spirit, viewed the Paris Games as an opportunity for the two countries to deepen their historical partnership, and emphasized their shared commitment to advancing the welfare of humanity: "The Olympic Games is a symbol of solidarity, friendship and mutual learning between civilizations. Let us stay committed to the goal set by our two countries when our diplomatic ties were forged, boost our traditional friendship, and practice the Olympic motto of 'Faster, Higher, Stronger - Together.' Let us join hands to open up a new era of China-France cooperation and write a new chapter in building a community with a shared future for mankind."

In May, sitting side by side, the Chinese and French presidents called for a worldwide truce during the Games. While weapons might continue to rage in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, the Olympic flame brightens the Parisian summer. It is a symbol of hope for peace and harmony that no hatred or tragedy can extinguish.

Let the Olympic spirit endure, and let us move closer to building a community with a shared future for all of humanity.

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