On May 5, the mission of China to AU and the UNECA jointly hosted the 2021 UN Chinese Language Day online celebration. Ambassador Liu Yuxi, head of the mission of China to AU, Ms. Nita Deerpalsing, Director of Publications, Conference and Knowledge Management Division of ECA, Dr. Lang Fafa Dampha, the Executive Secretary of the African Academy for Languages, Ambassadors and diplomats to AU, officials of UN agencies in Africa as well as teachers and students of Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University attended the online celebration.
Amb. Liu pointed out that Chinese is the language used by the largest population in the world and one of the six working languages of the United Nations. Chinese language and characters are rooted in traditional Chinese culture, and serve as an important means to bring Chinese culture to the world. At present, the Chinese language is increasingly becoming the bond that links the friendly relations between China and Africa and promotes the mutual understanding and trust between Chinese and African people. China is willing to continue the close exchanges and cooperation with the African side, promote mutual learning of civilizations to benefit the Chinese and African people and make greater contributions to the peace and development of the world. The next FOCAC to be held in Senegal this year will become a new starting point for cultural exchanges and cooperation between China and Africa in the post-pandemic era.
Ms. Nita Deerpalsing said that the United Nations initiated the language day celebration in 2010, aiming at promoting multilingualism and cultural diversity. Through the celebration of Chinese Language Day, the unique charm of Chinese language and culture will be further understood by people in Africa and the whole world.
Dr. Lang Fafa Dampha expressed that language is an important mean of cultural exchange, and more extensive cultural exchange activities should be carried out to promote the friendly relations between China and African countries.
Mr. Lan Jing, Director-General of Center for Ethnic and Folk Literature and Art Development, Ministry of Culture and Tourism of China, shared the experience of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage Protection. Professor Gao Lili, Dean of the Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University, shared the teaching cases of the Confucius Institute at Addis Ababa University. Ms. Foziya Ismael, a 3rd year student of Chinese B.A. Programme at the AAU, shared her experience with Chinese language and culture.
Participants watched Chinese folk music and dancing performances as well as online painting and calligraphy exhibitions. They spoke highly of this event, and was amazed by the profound Chinese culture. All the participants expressed their wishes to participate in more Chinese cultural exchange activities.