Translating a real China: Egyptian Sinologist connects cultures through literature

On the sidelines of the "World Conference on China Studies—Arab Countries Special Session" in Cairo, renowned Egyptian Sinologist Hassanein Fahmy Hussein shared his unique journey of bringing Chinese literature to Arabic readers.

Having translated more than 30 acclaimed Chinese works—including Mo Yan's Red Sorghum Clan, Yu Hua's Chronicle of a Blood Merchant, and Li Juan's My Altay—Hassanein believes direct translation allows the Arab world to see an authentic China. To capture the fine details of the rural landscapes he translates, he even visited Mo Yan's hometown in Gaomi, Shandong.

As China and Egypt mark the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, his work serves as a powerful testament to the enduring cultural bond between the two nations.

Professor Hassanein Fahmy Hussein, is an Egyptian Sinologist and translator, chair of the Chinese Department at Ain Shams University, Egypt.