Wu Jianmin remembered as a true globalist

Globalization, a process of international integration arising from the interchange of world views, products, ideas and other aspects of culture, began in the late 1960s or 1970s.

It has never been perfect and some even claim the process has brought vicious byproducts to the world, like the spread of international terrorism.

But globalization has been humanity's creative means in global governance after two world wars. It has brought the international community an unprecedented level of interdependence, making it more difficult and expensive for countries, especially great powers, declare war against each other.

I have recently been reading History of the First World War, by famous British military historian B.H. Liddell Hart, and it elaborated how the rise of nationalism and sometimes ultra-nationalism, led to a military buildup among European powers and the the First World War from 1914-18.

But unfortunately, we recently have seen signs of the retreat of globalization and the rise of nationalism. Donald Trump's run for the US presidency and the UK's coming referendum on whether to leave the European Union are both vivid examples.

A veteran diplomat whose career began in 1959, Wu was a man whose lifelong experience made him a solid opponent of nationalism.

He is a proponent of communication and integration, which are both needed for today's China, when the international environment, especially in our surrounding areas, is getting increasingly complicated.

Shocked by his sudden death, I posted on my WeChat account, which I rarely do, my mourning for the respected senior: "Ambassador Wu was one of the few Chinese diplomats with true global vision, at a time of the retreat of globalization and the rise of nationalism. I hope it (his death) was not real."

Moments later, I was very grateful to receive a comment from another "hawkish" Chinese international relations scholar, who used to harshly criticize Wu for his softline stance.

"My tribute to Ambassador Wu. China needs to have different voices," he said.

Indeed. A hardliner or softliner, nationalist or globalist, no matter what your choice, communication should always be encouraged.

And when globalization hits a bump, the world's sharp brains should discuss to find ways to get it back onto the right back, and not let it slip further.

I wish the tragic death Ambassador Wu would bring more cool-headed discussion and debate.

Mr Wu, you will be always remembered for your thoughts and bravery.