China's fans all in for All-Star Game

Yao, now 40, described his NBA career as a very important and precious experience that has helped him make many friends all over the world, as well as strengthening the relationship between China and the US.

Yao said that due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, exchanges between China and the US in politics, the economy, culture and sports have slowed down, and there have been differences on certain issues.

He stressed that these differences are not insurmountable, adding that it is now important to find solutions to these problems.

"Seeking common ground when differences exist in communication will eventually bring mutual respect and trust," Yao said.