Moratto has designed and taught courses in translation and interpretation that combine theory with practice. Photo: COURTESY OF RICCARDO MORATTO

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In recent years, Chinese universities have been actively building their translation studies by establishing research centers, launching international journals, and exploring the integration of artificial intelligence with teaching. These efforts have cultivated a new generation of high-quality translation professionals. Among the contributors to this endeavor is Riccardo Moratto, an Italian translator, AIIC member, distinguished professor from the School of Foreign Languages at Tongji University, and vice director of the Research Center for Chinese Discourse and Global Communication.

In a recent interview with CSST, Moratto emphasized the increasingly prominent role of translation in cross-cultural communication. He noted that Chinese translation scholars place great importance on interdisciplinary research, striving to build a knowledge system with distinct Chinese characteristics. At the same time, Chinese universities are accelerating the application of research findings to teaching and practice, fostering high-quality translation talents and producing excellent translation works. These efforts are helping to present China’s rich cultural heritage, remarkable development achievements, and enduring civilization to the world in a more comprehensive and nuanced manner.

Translation as a bridge for civilizational dialogue

CSST: 2024 marks the 20th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Italy, as well as the 700th anniversary of Marco Polo’s death. What role do you think translation plays in facilitating dialogue between China and Italy?

Moratto: In the context of Sino-Italian exchange and cooperation, translation is super important. It breaks down language barriers and helps both sides fully understand each other’s values, artistic achievements, historical heritage, and modern development. Works like The Travels of Marco Polo transcend linguistic and cultural differences, illustrating how the two civilizations have understood and learned from each other over time. These works have built a foundation of respect and trust for today’s cooperation.

In fact, precise translation is key in Sino-Italian collaboration in economics, technology, and education. It also helps deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership by making sure policies, technologies, and ideas are accurately shared. This makes practical cooperation easier.

Translators serve as cultural ambassadors, allowing people in both countries to enjoy each other’s cultural treasures through translated literature, films, art exhibitions, and operas. This deepens emotional connections and sparks creativity. It also encourages both the Chinese and Italian people to engage in the preservation, innovation, and communication of each other’s cultures.

CSST: What Chinese literary works are you currently translating? What are the unique charms of these works?

Moratto: I am currently translating two important Chinese literary works that will soon be published in Italy: Li Er’s Cherries on a Pomegranate Tree and Su Tong’s Tales of the Siskin. Li Er’s novel delicately portrays contemporary rural Chinese society, particularly the power structures and human complexities within village culture. This novel offers a vivid glimpse into the unique landscapes of China’s rural areas and the challenges they face during modernization. Tales of the Siskin, with its profound psychological depiction and unique narrative style, won the 9th Mao Dun Literature Prize and was selected for the 70 Novels from 70 Years contemporary Chinese literature collection. Su Tong’s work provides a heartfelt portrayal of Chinese society in the early years of reform and opening-up. Also, the universal themes embedded in these stories, such as love, power, ethics, betrayal, and redemption, will strongly resonate with Italian readers. I hope that the exquisite language and captivating narratives of these works will gently introduce Italian readers to the rich tapestry and profound beauty of Chinese literature, sparking a deeper curiosity and appreciation for Chinese culture.

Characteristics and accomplishments of Chinese translation studies

CSST: How can translation studies journals established by Chinese universities develop unique characteristics and gain international recognition?

Moratto: Translation studies journals established by Chinese universities significantly advance innovation in the field. To enhance their international standing and uniqueness, these journals could highlight distinct research perspectives and values. They might also embrace emerging areas such as the integration of machine translation and artificial intelligence, the role of translation in cultural dissemination in globalization, and the interaction between translation and socio-politics. By featuring cutting-edge research, these journals support Chinese scholars and foster global academic dialogue, boosting their international influence.

Moreover, making translation journals more international is key for global recognition. By attracting global submissions, adopting rigorous peer-review processes, and collaborating with top institutions and translation associations worldwide, Chinese translation journals can gain international standing.

At Tongji University’s School of Foreign Languages, we are launching the international journal Translation and Communication, for which I serve as executive editor. The journal will mainly publish articles in English, focusing on interdisciplinary and global views in translation studies. It will particularly focus on translation’s role in spreading culture, technological development, and social change. Translation and Communication will also explore the intersection of translation and communication studies, focusing on the critical role of translation in global information dissemination. The journal will publish innovative and forward-looking research, exploring the connections between translation and global cultural exchange, as well as socio-economic development.

CSST: As an international journal reviewer, editor, and peer reviewer, could you comment on the recent developments in Chinese translation studies?

Moratto: In recent years, Chinese translation studies have seen significant breakthroughs across theory, practice, technology, and cross-cultural communication. Scholars have developed numerous theories and methods with distinct Chinese characteristics, building on traditional frameworks while integrating local cultural and linguistic nuances. The Belt and Road Initiative and China’s rising global influence have spurred a sharp increase in translation demand. In response, Chinese translation institutions and professionals have adapted to the complex international landscape, taking on large-scale projects in politics, economics, and culture. Meanwhile, the use of artificial intelligence and computer-assisted tools has greatly boosted translation efficiency and accuracy.

Chinese translation scholars also emphasize interdisciplinary research, particularly at the intersection of translation and communication studies. This work, which is quite original on the global stage, centers on translating and spreading Chinese culture, including discourse construction. These theories offer fresh insights to the global translation community and advance the discipline itself. Moreover, translation practice in China has become increasingly diversified and specialized.

I’ve also observed that translation’s role in cross-cultural communication is growing in importance in China. It’s no longer just about language conversion but also about cultural exchange. Chinese translators and educators know that only high-quality translations can help the world understand China’s development, social changes, and people’s lives in a comprehensive and deep way. Thus, the growth of translation studies in China is vital for amplifying China’s voice on the international stage.

Enhancing China’s international communication efficacy

CSST: In the process of cross-cultural communication, what specific obstacles might arise in enhancing the international audience’s understanding of Chinese values and concepts? What can Chinese universities do to effectively address these challenges?

Moratto: As a sinologist, I believe that China faces two major challenges in enhancing its international communication efficacy: one is language and cultural differences, and the other is the limitations of media and information dissemination channels. To address these challenges, Chinese universities can establish research centers focusing on strengthening cross-cultural research and translation capacity building, constructing international cooperation platforms, and innovating new media communication. For example, I am going to lead an international center for cross-cultural studies at Tongji University, which will focus on cross-cultural communication and comparative cultural studies. By enhancing cultural exchanges and interactions between China and other countries, the center will promote cultural understanding and cooperation in education, cultural industries, and international communication. The center’s work will include both theoretical exploration and practical initiatives to promote Chinese culture and values globally. I have strong faith that the center’s efforts will enhance the efficacy of China’s international discourse and the global recognition of Chinese culture.

CSST: The rapid development of information technology has brought significant changes to the translation industry. How can universities help translation students improve their employability and broaden their career prospects?

Moratto: Many Chinese universities are really stepping up their game. They’re actively guiding translation students to adapt to technological changes and boost their cross-cultural literacy. Translation educators must equip the new generation of Chinese translators with cutting-edge technologies to enable them to effectively tell China’s stories.

For example, Tongji University is committed to cultivating translation talents with a background in advanced artificial intelligence technologies. Through the implementation of the “Three Enhancements” strategy, the university promotes the deep integration of AI and translation studies, creating a new talent development model.

The “Three Enhancements” strategy focuses on three key areas: developing AI curricula, training teachers in AI literacy, and cultivating expertise in AI-related fields. First, we’re integrating AI courses into the translation program to systematically boost students’ digital thinking and innovation skills. By offering AI introductory courses and using the PBL (Problem-Based Learning) method, we’re equipping students to solve real-world problems. This gives them the technical know-how they need to enter the translation industry, especially in roles that involve localization and smart translation tools.

Second, we’re also beefing up AI literacy training for teachers. This helps them up their teaching game and improve their ability to use AI technologies. It’s a win-win strategy: not only does this improve the quality of translation education, but it also provides students with a competitive edge by equipping them with a solid knowledge base, enabling them to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving translation market.

Third, we’re pushing for interdisciplinary integration, especially in terms of combining AI and translation. The goal is to train students with a hybrid “AI + translation” skill set. This prepares them for cutting-edge work like localization and human-machine collaborative translation.

In conclusion, I’m confident and hopeful that the new generation of translation professionals will drive innovation and development in China’s translation industry in the digital age. This will help present a reliable, admirable, and respectable image of China.

Edited by LIAN ZHIXIAN