«Xi Jinping is a model of leadership, of a leader who has both strategy and compassion,» says William N. Brown, an American professor at Xiamen University, who has called China home for over 30 years.

According to People’s Daily, his connection with Xi spans decades, marked by personal letter exchanges and early encounters during Xi’s tenure in coastal Fujian Province. Xi has long encouraged Brown—who has been writing about China since 1988—to share China’s stories with the world.

Watch as Brown reflects on his journey, his inspiring interactions with Xi and the stories behind their memorable connection.