It came out in many languages, including Danish, Norwegian, Icelandic, English, German, French, Italian, Polish, Portuguese, Vietnamese, Thai, Korean and, most recently, Chinese.

Mahanandia appeared with his wife on Aug 17 at a Shanghai bookstore to promote the book, published by the People's Literature Publishing House under the Chinese title Cong Xindeli Dao Buluosi.

"China is rising and taking the leadership, and I am very glad for that. Things are very prosperous here. People seem very happy and proud of their citizenship."

He also sees parallels between his own journey of love and togetherness across the ancient Silk Road and today's Belt and Road Initiative.

"We cannot do anything alone. But together, we can accomplish many things."

Contact the writer at jocelyn@chinadaily.com.cn