AboutCHN

BEIJING, Sept. 14 (Xinhua) -- Bill Gates and Warren Buffett answered Xinhua's questions about their visit to China late this month in a response letter Xinhua received Tuesday.

Following is the full text of the letter:

A response letter to Xinhua News Agency's questions from Bill Gates and Warren Buffett

September 14, 2010

In just a few weeks, we will be returning to China. One part of that trip we are looking forward to is the opportunity to sit down with a number of successful business people and philanthropists to learn about philanthropy in China and to share some of our own experiences about the impact giving can have on society and our world.

Recently, we were pleased to announce that 40 very wealthy families in the United States have agreed to participate in what we are calling the Giving Pledge. Though not a binding contract, the pledge is a promise by those participating to return the majority of their wealth to society through philanthropy-during their lifetime or at death. We're pleased to be part of that effort, and have been moved by the thoughtfulness and generosity of the many taking this pledge. We are learning from each other.

But we know that the Giving Pledge is just one approach to philanthropy, and we do not know if it's the right path forward for China. Some people have wondered if we're coming to China to pressure people to give. Not at all.

Our trip is fundamentally about learning, listening, and responding to those who express an interest in our own experiences. China's circumstances are unique, and so its approach to philanthropy will be, as well.

Both of us have been influenced in our thinking by some of the great philanthropists of the 20th century. Leaders like Rockefeller and Carnegie revolutionized philanthropy in the US, and served as role models and guides for the many great givers who followed in their footsteps.

Certainly there is a long and noble tradition of giving in China going back centuries. But this is a particularly important moment in China's history. The present generation of successful entrepreneurs has an opportunity to set an example for future generations in China. It is very likely they will have a substantial impact on how large scale philanthropy grows and develops in modern China.

Of course, there is noteworthy philanthropy going on at all levels of society in China, not just among the very fortunate. One neighbor helping another is every bit as praiseworthy as a large monetary gift by a wealthy individual. We are all called to do what we can, as described beautifully in an old Chinese saying: "Remember what you have received. Forget what you gave."

As it has done in so many other ways, China will surprise the world in its embrace of philanthropy. All of this makes it a particular privilege for us to be coming to listen, to learn and to share our own passion and excitement about the possibilities of returning to society much of the good fortune we have received.