Quotable

"I am a fan of ancient Chinese literature and philosophy, especially Laozi and Confucius, who teach us to balance our thoughts and deeds. China and Vietnam used to be backward countries when it came to manufacturing industries. But China can now make its own large planes. But I don't want to find a job in China because there is too much competition and pressure."

Lai The Trung, 21, from Hanoi, Vietnam, a Chinese language and literature major at Guangxi University.

"My brother-in-law imported sewing machines from China. He needed a translator, so I chose Chinese as my major and went to China. I like Chinese calligraphy - it's a bridge to the country's culture, history and philosophy. I feel happy and calm when I write the ancient characters. I hope Chinese people can accept me as one of their own, not as a foreigner."