TV shows, films can consolidate cultural bonds with Europe

I am thrilled by the avalanche of comments, re-posts and likes that I received within hours of the publication of my article on China Daily's weibo account on actor Jin Dong and his presence in the Belgian city of Antwerp to film Mr Right, a new TV drama. The popularity of the article can be partly attributed to Jin Dong, whose portrayal of different characters has won him the appreciation and love of millions of Chinese women of all ages.

But further reading of the online posts and comments reveals that the Chinese readers are also attracted to the description of Antwerp itself, and its reputation as a world-class center for beer, chocolate and fashion, its diamond trade, and its historic port and shopping streets.

The charms of Antwerp and Chinese people's love for the city make you realize how a TV drama can bring the people of Belgium and China closer.