by Xinhua Writer Zhang Xuan
BELGRADE, Nov. 25 (Xinhua) -- "In China, I got to see what the future could look like," Serbian documentary producer Bosko Kozarski said after spending several days filming in Beijing.
It was Kozarski's first time in China. He told Xinhua that he was drawn to the capital's combination of deep historical heritage and fast-paced digital life.
"I felt how comfortable and delightful everyday life in Beijing is, which really surprised me," he said.
The idea for the project emerged while he was working on a film about Chinese history. Accompanied by Tatjana Soldat, director of the Serbian Cultural Center in Beijing, Kozarski spent his days filming at well-known cultural sites.
Soldat recalled Kozarski's reaction at the Great Wall. "Every corner left him in awe. He repeatedly filmed the details, marveling at the wisdom of Chinese civilization."
The documentary premiered in Belgrade two months later, showing scenes of the bustling Great Wall, young women in traditional Chinese attire, traditional Beijing business streets and steaming copper hotpot.
Audience member Vesna Markovic said, "The way Beijing was presented -- through culture, everyday life, history and its hidden details -- was so inspiring," adding that it strengthened her desire to visit this fascinating country.
Zhang Aimin, director of the Chinese Cultural Center in Belgrade, said the documentary depicted China's development and cultural charm "from the perspective of a Serbian media professional ... allowing Serbian audiences to see a real and relatable China."
For Kozarski, small encounters stood out as much as the landmarks. He said he was struck by how familiar many Chinese people were with Serbia. "As a Serbian, you feel welcomed in China."
Food became another focus of the trip. On Qianmen Street in central Beijing, he sampled dishes from across the country. "I truly believe that Chinese cuisine is one of its greatest assets when it comes to tourism. I hope that we'll have the chance to explore more Chinese provinces in the future."
Kozarski was also amazed by China's level of digitalization and the convenience it brings: "Everything is digitalized, and all you really need is to know how to use a few apps."
He added that Beijing, as a modern metropolis, strikes a rare balance between relaxing natural scenery and urban landscapes. "I walked along the Liangma River, and I felt the place was magical. Seeing families paddling in canoes, elderly residents fishing, or simply enjoying the blooming lotuses was a real delight."
The trip, he said, ignited deeper curiosity about China. "It sparked in us a strong desire for new knowledge and experiences."
Soldat expressed hope for more bilateral cultural exchanges in the future, so that "culture can become the adhesive of Serbia-China friendship and help this 'ironclad friendship' bloom even more brightly in the new era."
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