I have realized my life’s dream here in Beijing

Hosam Elmaghrabi, 39, a reporter in the Arabic department of China.org.cn, an online news portal.

came to Beijing in May 2005.

My wife is a Chinese national, and after our marriage we lived in Cairo for three years. I did not want my wife to stay away from her family for too long. My brothers took care of my parents, so it was my turn to look after hers.

I have loved China since my first day here. It is a huge country with a diverse climate and landscape, a history that spans 5,000 years and friendly, welcoming people.

Whether it is shopping, traveling or daily life, everything is convenient. So much so, that I’m worried I may not be able to adapt to life elsewhere.

I decided to apply for permanent residence because my closest relatives are here in China — my wife and my 13-year-old daughter, who was born here.

Last year, I visited Yiwu, Zhejiang province, to conduct interviews. The city was one of the friendliest places I have ever been. Moreover, a lot of daily necessities used in my country, Egypt, are made in the county-level city.

When I wandered around Yiwu International Trade City, I came across a lot of “citizens of the world” like myself. I saw the impact the past has had on the government and how the recent economic growth is paving the way for a new China to emerge.

I spoke with an Egyptian businessman named Ammar Ashour, who has lived in China for eight years. He told me the Yiwu municipal government has been very supportive of his export business and attaches great importance to his work.

In Yiwu, he has realized his dream of becoming a successful businessman.

I have found peace of mind and a sense of belonging in this land full of opportunity. It is my home and I want to lay down roots here. I applied for a green card last year and received it four months ago. In Beijing, I have also realized my dream.

Hosam Elmaghrabi spoke with Wang Keju.