Sergei Sanakoyev, head of the Russian-Chinese Center for Trade and Economic Cooperation, visited southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region last August.
Several months later, the beauty of the mysterious Qinghai-Tibet Plateau still lingers in his mind.
In an interview with Xinhua Thursday, Sanakoyev expressed sincere hopes of visiting the region again someday.
"I was deeply captivated by the spectacular landscape of the Tibetan plateau as well as the region's fascinating religious architecture and folk customs," said Sanakoyev, radiating joy while recalling his trip.
"However, what impressed me most was the Qinghai-Tibet Railway, which required a huge investment (from the government)," he said.
"The Chinese government made a wise decision in launching the groundbreaking project, which shows its determination in ensuring solidarity among, and the common development of, all ethnic groups in the country."
The Qinghai-Tibet Railway, running 1,956 km from Qinghai's provincial capital Xining to the Tibetan capital Lhasa, is the world's highest and longest plateau railroad.
Put into operation in July 2006, the railway has had a profound impact on Tibet's development since it ended the history of the landlocked region of being without railway links.
During his trip, Sanakoyev said he witnessed the remarkable achievements made by Tibet in various aspects of social development thanks to the support of the central government.
"I also noticed that the neighboring provinces, such as Sichuan, have been offering selfless support to Tibet's development," he added.
What made Sanakoyev feel more lucky was that the "2007 China's Tibet Culture Week" opened in Russia not long after he returned home.
As an important part of the "Year of China" in Russia, the theme event was held in Moscow and Elista, capital of the Republic of Kalmykia, from September 6-16, 2007.
Pictures of Tibet and Tibetan scroll painting Tangka were exhibited during the "Culture Week", which brought back to Sanakoyev the pleasant memory of Tibet's beautiful landscape.
However, he was a bit saddened while talking about the recent riots in Lhasa.
"My heart hurt when I saw what has happened in Lhasa. I believe the riots in Lhasa are the result of a conspiracy, which aims to jeopardize Tibet's stability and alienate Tibetans and the Han ethnic group," he said.
"I am confident that the Chinese government is capable of restoring social order and stability in Tibet soon and I want to visit Tibet again someday," he added.
Source: Xinhua
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