by Xinhua writers Wang Minghao, Shao Xiangyun and Song Rui TIANJIN, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- The bond between China and Italy can be traced back seven centuries ago, to the Venetian merchant and explorer Marco Polo and his trailblazing journey to China along the ancient Silk Road. Letizia Vallini, an Italian teacher, has continued this tradition to become a "modern Marco Polo" and a "cultural ambassador" between the two countries thanks to her translation works that touch upon the many faces of China.