A resident of Huaibei in China’s Anhui province has turned to the media to help find his former girlfriend so that he can return a loan of 10,000 yuan (£1,100).
The man, identified as Li, sought assistance from a popular local television programme, "Xiaoli Helps You", which is known for resolving everyday public issues.
According to Chinese media reports, Li met his former girlfriend, Ma, in 1991 when he was 23 years old and she was 25. Ma, a divorced woman with a young son, worked alongside Li, and the two developed a relationship that lasted for eight years. Their relationship ended when Li’s father was diagnosed with cancer and asked his son to return to his hometown.
In 2001, Ma supported Li financially by lending him 10,000 yuan to start his own business. However, over the years, Li lost contact with her after misplacing his mobile phone and was unable to reach her again. He has since expressed deep regret for not returning the money sooner.
Speaking on the television programme, Li said he wanted to repay the debt that had remained unsettled for years and hoped Ma would come forward so that he could fulfil his obligation.
Li’s wife has fully supported his search for Ma and his decision to involve the media.
