The Spring Festival, brimming with tradition and festivities, showcases the unique charm and rich diversity of Chinese culture. In recent years, various regions across China have been organizing events for foreign experts to introduce them to Chinese traditions. These activities not only highlight the beauty of Chinese culture but also foster deeper understanding and appreciation in international guests.
Recently, over 80 experts from more than 30 countries, including the U.S., the UK, Germany, Italy, Japan and Bolivia, attended the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei Foreign Experts Spring Festival Gathering in Beijing.
American sociologist, writer and musician Mark Levine, a recipient of the Chinese Government Friendship Award in 2014, shared his story of singing about China's rapid development to the world.
At the event, he sang "Where Is the Road?" and "Only Here Is My Heart's Destination," both reflecting his deep affection for China. The gathering also saw the participants engage in traditional Chinese crafts such as calligraphy, seal carving, lantern making, face painting and other traditional cultural activities.
They were also given a tour of Beijing's "Two Zones" Exhibition Hall, the Beijing Grand Canal Museum, and Mengniu Dairy Co. Hun Kim, acting vice president of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), applauded Beijing's improving environment and spoke of AIIB's commitment to investing in clean energy, sustainable cities, and urban highways, hoping to contribute to Beijing's urban development.
Franz Michael Dolg, a German professor from Beijing Normal University, highlighted China's scenic beauty, profound cultural heritage, rapid technological advancement, and warm-hearted people. He said events like the Spring Festival meeting strengthen friendship and academic exchanges between Chinese and foreign researchers.
Hosam Farouk Ahmed Hohamed Elmaghrabi, an Egyptian journalist with the online media organization China.org.cn, spoke about not only experiencing the charm of traditional Chinese culture but also witnessing modern China's development achievements.
Similar events were held in other cities as well, like "My Spring Festival in Anhui" in Hefei city, capital of Anhui province, and the Spring Festival celebration for foreign experts in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. Such events offer a window to Chinese culture and traditions, fostering mutual understanding and friendship.
Through these enriching experiences, foreign experts are encouraged to integrate more deeply into Chinese society, contributing their skills and knowledge while discovering new opportunities in this land of possibilities.