China-Germany Friendship Night Concert

Number 173 Published in September 2013 Chinese and English CONTENTS Friendly Contacts Vice Premier Liu Yandong Meets Northern Ireland First Minister and Deputy First Minister �� Sun Chi 2 Retracing Richard Nixon’s Steps in China, Strengthening 40 Years of Friendship �� An Xin 4 A Trip of Enhancing Understanding and Cooperation �� Ai Lin 19 Delegation of Myanmar-China Friendship Association Visits China �� Xu Yiyi 22 Latin American Mayors Delegation Visits China �� Hua Jiaguang 25 SPF Delegation Visits China Seeking Cooperation and Exchanges �� Xing Shuhua 27 Delegation of Morocco-China Friendship and Exchange Association Visits China �� Ai Lin 28 Old Russian Lady’s Deep Affection for Qingdao �� Lu Ming 30 In Other Lands CAPFA President Abdul’ahat Abdulrixit Leads Delegation to Burundi and Tanzania �� Huang Xiaowei 7 Make Friends Through Calligraphy and Painting �� Sun Tao 12 Art Goes Beyond Borders �� Wu Qiang 32 Embracing Space Hand in Hand �� Xu Yan 33 Pakistanis Eager to Welcome Premier Li Keqiang �� Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani (Pakistan) 46 Forums China-Poland Local Cooperation Forum Held in Poland �� Lu Yanxia 14 Second Dialogue Between Chinese and African Governors and Mayors Held in Jinan �� Tang Ruimin 16 Round-Table Meeting on China and Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership �� Wen Guangmei 18 Second Sino-Indian University Students Forum Held ��Zhang Ran 48 Meaning of Friendship — Person-to-Person & People-to-People �� Billy Lee (The United States) 50 Friendship Activities Agreement Signed to Facilitate Cooperation Between Chinese and Indian Cities ��Qing Boming 9 Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang Meets Chinese Friends �� Xu Yiyi 10 Departure Ceremony for Chinese International Friendship Volunteers Held in Beijing �� An Xin 47 Cultural Exchanges The Glamour of People to People Cultural Exchange �� Xi Wei 35 Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe’s Performance Tour of Japan �� Zhang Yaqin 38 Break Cultural Barriers with Music �� Wang Wei 40 Music Connects People’s Hearts �� Gan Qianyi 42 Museum of Old Historical Photos of Chengdu Opens in Dayi County �� Rong You 44 Wan-go Weng — Propagator of Chinese Culture �� Liu Gengyin 45 Foreign Friends’ View on China The Best Place for the Belle �� Shihabur Rahman (Bangladesh) 54 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever A Japanese War Veteran’s Ties with China �� Liu Pu, Chen Qiang 55

Front cover: Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe’s tour of Japan (February 25 to May 31, 2013) Sponsored and published by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries Editor-in-Chief: Wang Hong Address: 1 Tai Ji Chang St., Beijing, 100740, China Fax: (010)65122782 E-mail: [email protected] http://www.cpaffc.org.cn ISSN 1000-9582 CN11-1234/D http://www.qikan.com Friendly Contacts

Vice Premier Liu Yandong Meets Northern Ireland First Minister and Deputy First Minister

Sun Chi

“China and the United Kingdom, Premier Liu Yandong when meeting saw the establishment of high-level countries with major influence in the Peter Robinson and Martin McGuin- consultative mechanism for people-to- world, have broad common interests ness, respectively First and Deputy people and cultural exchanges. Within and wide areas for cooperation. Their First Minister of Northern Ireland, and this framework, China intended to friendly cooperation has great sig- their party at Zhongnanhai in Beijing strengthen exchanges and coopera- nificance for the wellbeing of their on May 30. tion in various fields including culture, peoples and peace and development in She emphasized, people-to-people education, and science and technology the world. They must further increase and cultural exchanges represented with Britain and Northern Ireland. political mutual trust, properly handle heart-to-heart communications laying a Liu said the Chinese Government sensitive bilateral issues, and achieve solid social and public opinion founda- attached great importance to exchanges win-win results in cooperation on the tion for sound and smooth development between localities and local govern- basis of mutual respect to further proof bilateral relations. Last year marked ments. There were now a total of 49 mote relations forward.” the 40th anniversary of diplomatic re- friendship-city/province arrangements These remarks were made by Vice lations at the ambassadorial level, and between China and the UK and she

Vice Premier Liu Yandong meets Northern Ireland First Minister Peter Robinson and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness

2 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

hoped for increased contacts between great impetus to Sino-British and Sino- Northern Ireland and China Chinese local governments and North- Northern Ireland relations, adding that should enhance mutual understanding, ern Ireland. both British Prime Minister David and one of the major channels was cul- The Vice Premier noted that the Cameron and the government of North- tural and educational exchange and co- CPAFFC, an important organization for ern Ireland respected the important role operation. River Dance was very popu- people-to-people diplomacy in China, China played in international affairs lar in China. Folk artists from North- had invited a Northern Ireland delega- and hoped to develop closer ties with ern Ireland came to China to perform tion to visit the country last year and it. and stage joint shows with Chinese again this year. She believed that, with On bilateral cooperation, the First performing artists. All this had vigor- the support of the Chinese Government Minister said, Vice Premier Liu Yan- ously promoted contacts between the and the CPAFFC, such local govern- dong had unveiled a plaque for Confu- peoples. The Northern Ireland Govern- ment exchanges would grow. cius Institute at the University of Ul- ment wished to expand exchanges in Liu briefed the guests on the 18th ster during her visit last year. Northern the fields of economy, trade, agriculture National Congress of the Communist Ireland hoped to go a step further, to and animal husbandry with China, he Party of China, describing it as a mile- popularize Chinese language teaching added. stone in China’s efforts for national in middle and primary schools. On strengthening people-to-peo- renewal and development. It has set Northern Ireland expected to in- ple and cultural cooperation between two goals: to complete the building crease its export of agricultural and the two sides, Liu Yandong said China of a moderately prosperous society animal husbandry products to China would continue to deepen exchange and when the CPC celebrates its centenary and strengthen agricultural coopera- cooperation in cultural, educational, (2021) and to turn China into a modern tion. scientific and technological fields with socialist country prosperous, strong, Deputy First Minister McGuin- Northern Ireland within the mechanism democratic, culturally advanced and ness said the Northern Ireland Govern- of China-Britain people-to-people and harmonious when the People’s Re- ment attached great importance to de- cultural exchanges, and continue to public of China marks its centennial veloping friendly relations with China, strengthen contacts between localities. (2049). evidenced by his two visits within the She said, Britain had a well-established It has put forth the overall plan space of seven months. He thanked the educational system and trained many for promoting economic, political, cul- CPAFFC and the Chinese Consul Gen- qualified personnel and cooperation tural, social and ecological progress eral in Edinburgh for all they had done could be carried out at various levels and clearly defined the approaches for for the delegation. from preschool to institutions of higher achieving industrialization, informa- He told the Vice Premier that learning, which was very important to tionization, urbanization and agricul- Northern Ireland had long been plagued the development and reform of China’s tural modernization simultaneously. by sectarian conflicts, but had finally educational system, and the improve- The Chinese dream of realizing a great achieved success in its peace process, ment of its teaching quality. national renewal put forth by President which was recognized worldwide. Present at the meeting were Xi Jinping has greatly aroused public Many countries came to Northern Ire- Yuan Guiren, Minister of Education, enthusiasm. land to learn its successful experience Li Xiaolin, President of the CPAFFC, First Minister Robinson spoke in this regard. Song Tao, Vice Minister of Foreign Af- highly of the leadership skills of the From his two visits, he had seen fairs, Li Jianping, Vice President of the Chinese Government and leaders in the great achievements the government CPAFFC, Li Ruiyou, Chinese Consul coping with complex challenges. He had made in improving people’s lives General in Edinburgh, and Dan Chugg, also said that the visit to Northern Ire- and he would tell the people of North- Political Counselor of the British Em- land by Vice Premier Liu had given ern Ireland what he had seen and heard. bassy in China.

3 Friendly Contacts Retracing Richard Nixon’s Steps in China Strengthening 40 Years of Friendship

An Xin

he year 2013 marks the 100th T anniversary of the birth of former U.S. President Richard Nixon. At the invitation of the CPAFFC, a 45-member delegation of the Richard Nixon Foundation paid a visit to Beijing, Hangzhou and Shanghai from May 2 to 10, retracing the President’s visit to China in 1972. Members of the delegation included Christopher Nixon Cox, a grandson of Richard Nixon, and his wife, working staff in the White House during the Nixon presidency, and the President The delegation of the Richard Nixon Foundation attending the forum and members of the Richard Nixon Foundation. Yang said, “We appreciate the forts to promote building a cooperative leaders of the older generation of the partnership of mutual respect and mu- Carrying on the past heritage and two countries for their farsightedness tual benefit and explore ways to build a opening up the future, and and personages of various social sec- new model for relations between major striving to build a new type of tors of both countries for their impor- countries. China-U.S. relationship tant contributions to the development Christopher Cox recalled that his During its stay in Beijing, the of China-U.S. relations.” Such relations grandfather had told him that if a bil- delegation attended the Forum entitled were now at a new important stage of lion of the world’s most industrious and “Retracing Richard Nixon’s Steps in development based on the past heri- ingenious people were left in isolation, China and Strengthening 40 years of tage and opening up the future. It was the world would be in danger, while a Friendship” and a welcoming recep- highly meaningful that the delegation strong and prosperous China would be tion hosted by the CPAFFC. During of the Richard Nixon Foundation was a pillar for peace and stability. This was his meeting with representatives of visiting China at such an important mo- particularly true at present. The United the U.S. delegation, State Councilor ment to retrace President Nixon’s steps State and China could learn from and Yang Jiechi noted that the handshake in China. cooperate with each other in many ar- between the leaders of China and the Yang told the delegation that eas, which would have great impact on United States across the Pacific Ocean President Xi Jinping talked to Presi- the world. He believed that, as long as had created profound changes not only dent Barack Obama on the phone on the two sides could manage their dif- in China and the United States, but also the very day of his inauguration. Both ferences in the spirit of cooperation and the whole world. sides agreed to continue their joint ef- friendship, there were no problems that

4 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 could not be solved. clear up misunderstandings face to face sonally experience that week which Among those present at the meet- and work together to build a new type changed the history of international di- ing commemorating President Richard of relationship between major powers. plomacy and very happy that he could Nixon’s first visit to China held by the be engaged in the cause of China-U.S. CPAFFC were Tang Wensheng and Reviewing the past can better friendship and see increasing exchang- Ding Yuanhong, senior diplomats in- understand the present — es and closer cooperation between the volved in the work of receiving Presi- witnesses of China-U.S. friendship two countries in the past 40 years. dent Nixon on his first visit to China; Lu Hesen, now over 80. who once Captain Jack Brennan, Marine CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin, long worked in the Foreign Affairs Office of Corps Aide to President Nixon, showed engaged in the work dealing with the the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Gov- the itinerary of the visit in 1972 that United States; Zhou Wenzhong, Sec- ernment, had participated in the whole he carried with him and recalled to- retary General of the Boao Forum for process of preparation for and recep- gether with Lu how the leaders of the Asia and Vice President of the China- tion of President Nixon’s visit to Hang- two countries stayed up all night draft- U.S. People’s Friendship Association; zhou in 1972. When the delegation vis- ing the joint communiqué. Brennan Kathleen Troia McFarland, Pentagon ited Hangzhou, he was invited to attend said that he had accompanied President spokeswoman during Nixon’s presiden- the welcoming reception held by Liang Nixon on the visit to China three times. cy; Majie Acker, President Nixon’s sec- Liming, Vice Governor of Zhejiang When he came to China for the first retary; Teresa Rosenberger, researcher Province, in the West Lake State Guest time in 1972, Beijing only had a very and White House speech writer during House. small and shabby airport. On his way the Nixon presidency, and some others. Lu showed Mr. Cox and his wife to the town in a car, he could hardly see They recalled the “ice-breaking historical photos and news reports any people in the streets and just a few journey” of Sino-US relations in 1972 about President Nixon’s visit to China, cars made in the Soviet Union. and put forward suggestions on how and shared his experience with mem- In his impressions at that time, the two sides could continue to boost bers of the delegation about the recep- China was grey and black and every- long-term healthy and steady develop- tion of the U.S. delegation in 1972. one wore clothes of dull color. After ment of their ties in the new era. Speak- He said, he felt it a great honor to per- snow, there was even no snow sweeper ers on the Chinese side said that, with The delegation on the Great Wall at Badaling Section in Beijing the increase of exchanges and contacts between the two countries in various fields, China and the United States had gradually established mutual trust. For the future, China would continue to promote friendly exchanges and prag- matic cooperation between the two peoples through various flexible ways so that the cause of China-U.S. friendship would take root in the hearts of the people and last from generation to generation. The American side expressed their gratitude to the Chinese Government and people for placing great importance to the bilateral relations, and stressed it was necessary for the two countries to

5 Friendly Contacts in such a big city, and the government In the new century, science and planted two Chinese yew saplings nur- had to depend on residents to sweep it technology, no matter how advanced, tured by Chinese botanists next to the away with brooms. Returning over 30 could never replace the most real and redwood trees planted in 1972, symbol- years later, he felt as if China had been direct communication between people. izing the friendship between the Chi- progressing for several hundred years. nese and American people in the new There were happy smiles on every- Carrying forward the cause era. one’s face. China was rich in color. The pioneered by predecessors and Mr. Cox said that he and his achievements China had made were forging ahead into the future wife had always wished to retrace truly amazing. To express his friendly sentiments his grandfather’s steps and see with Majie Acker, Teresa Rosenberger to the Chinese people, during his first their own eyes the tree of China-U.S. and Leslie Ramsay, an official of the visit to China in 1972, President Nixon friendship. He said redwoods originate Public Liaison Office during Nixon’s brought California North American from California, home state of Presi- presidency, recalled how, when they redwood saplings as a gift. Personally dent Nixon. To Americans, redwoods learned that President Nixon was going arranged by Premier Zhou Enlai, the represent strength and beauty. When to visit China, they were greatly sur- saplings were planted in the Hang- conditions permit, small redwood sap- prised and even more surprised than if zhou Botanical Garden beside the West lings can grow into the tallest trees in the President had announced a visit to Lake. the world and survive for thousands of the moon. In that era, when China and On the morning of May 7, Mr. years. the United States were estranged and Cox and his wife and other members In 1972 President Nixon hoped to had no contacts, they couldn’t help har- of the delegation visited the Botanical build a peaceful and stable living envi- bor fear and apprehension. But when Garden in high spirits. When they saw ronment for the people across the Pa- the two countries bridged the Pacific the small saplings planted 41 years ago cific Ocean through the seeds of U.S.- Ocean and the two great nations had had grown into towering trees, they China friendship he sowed during his an opportunity to meet face to face, the were very excited and asked to have first visit to China. Mr. Cox said that American people experienced kindness pictures taken as souvenirs. Witnessed the U.S.-China relations built by Presi- and friendship from the eyes of the by representatives of both Chinese and dent Nixon and the Chinese leaders of Chinese people and were deeply grate- American sides, Mr. Cox and his wife the older generation continued devel- ful for this friendship. and other members of the delegation oping and exchanges in various fields Members of the delegation planting a yew sapling in the Hangzhou becoming increasingly closer. Botanical Garden The younger generation should inherit and carry forward the wisdom, determination and courage displayed by the older generation to continue the friendship forged by leaders of the two countries 40 years ago. He hoped that the younger generations could follow this historical tradition and make contributions to the friendship between the two peoples. He expected that one day his children and grandchildren could also visit Hangzhou to retrace the steps of their forefathers and continue to sow peace and friendship on this piece of land.

6 In Other Lands

CAPFA President Abdul’ahat Abdulrixit Leads Delegation to Burundi and Tanzania

Huang Xiaowei

delegation headed by Abdul’ahat AAbdulrixit, President of the Chinese-African People’s Friendship Association (CAPFA), visited Burundi and Tanzania from May 5 to 14 at the invitation of Therence Sinunguruza, First Vice President of Burundi, and Hawa Ghasia, Minister of State for Regional Administration and Local Government in the Prime Minister’s Office of Tanzania.

High Praise for Sino-African Relations During the visit, Abdul’ahat Ab- CAPFA President Abdul’ahat Abdulrixit with Burundian dulrixit called on Burundian President President Pierre Nkurunziza Pierre Nkurunziza and First Vice Presi- dent T. Sinunguruza, and Tanzanian gional issues and supported each other gratitude to China for always standing Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda, at- on issues concerning core interests and by the people of Burundi and providing tended the welcoming dinner given by major concerns. selfless support since its independence. Burundian Minister of Interior Edouard The CAPFA, as a people-to-peo- The two sides had built a long-term Nduwimana, and had a working confer- ple organization promoting China-Afri- relationship of friendship and coopera- ence with Tanzania’s Minister of State ca friendship, would further strengthen tion. Hawa Ghasia. exchanges and cooperation to enhance China had given assistance in var- In his meetings he noted the pro- mutual understanding and friendship so ious forms to Burundi for national con- found traditional friendship between as to raise Sino-African relations to a struction, contributing positively to the China and the two African countries. new level. country’s unity, stability and national In recent years, they had frequently President Nkurunziza extended liberation. He hoped China would con- exchanged high-level visits, achieved his welcome to the CAPFA President tinue to give support to Burundi’s eco- fruitful results in their practical cooper- and asked him to convey his greetings nomic and social development and help ation in various fields, maintained good to President Xi Jinping and others in it implement its economic development communication on international and re- China’s new leadership. He expressed plan.

7 In Other Lands

Prime Minister Pinda happily recalled his visit to China at the invitation of the CAPFA in 2007 when he was minister of state for regional administration and local government. China and Tanzania had long been friends. Tanzania greatly valued the selfless Chinese support over the years. The two countries had great potential for cooperation in many areas. They had signed a dozen cooperation agreements during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Tanzania. There were so many areas in which Tanzania had something to learn from China and Tanzanian Prime Minister Mizengo Pinda meeting with CAPFA he hoped the two sides would continue President Abdul’ahat Abdulrixit to strengthen their practical cooperation CAPFA in promoting local government ince of China and Kampala, capital of and make concerted efforts for mutu- exchanges between China and Africa, Uganda. He welcomed local govern- ally beneficial results. especially the First Forum on China- ment leaders of the two countries he Africa Local Government Cooperation was visiting to participate. Promoting Practical Cooperation held in Beijing last year. The African side expressed ap- Between Local Governments of As a follow-up action, the China- preciation of CAPFA’s efforts to pro- China and Africa Africa Governors and Mayors Dialogue mote practical cooperation between When meeting with people of and the China-East African Community local governments of China and Africa. various circles in Burundi and Tan- Governors and Mayors Dialogue would Burundian First Vice President Sinun- zania, President Abdul’ahat Abudul- be held respectively in Shandong Prov- guruza and Tanzanian Minister of State rixit briefed them on the work of the Ghasia both said that the first Forum on The delegation visiting the Confucius Institute at the University of Burundi China-Africa Local Government Co- operation in China last year left a deep impression on them. They believed Sino-African local cooperation played an important role in strengthening overall relations and expressed the hope that further enhanced local government practical cooperation would benefit the people of China and Africa. They said that many good ideas and measures were put forward at last year’s forum and believed governments would give full support to implement- ing the consensus reached at the forum and follow-up action. After the working meeting with Minister of State Ghasia, CPAFFC

8 Friendship Activities

Vice President Feng Zuoku, on behalf of the CAPFA, signed a MOU Agreement Signed to Facilitate Cooperation on cooperation in the fields of education, infrastructure facility, Between Chinese and Indian Cities personnel exchange, and economy and trade. Qing Boming

t the invitation of the Ministry of Since 1973, when China started Donating to Educational External Affairs of India, CPAFFC twinning friendship-city (province/ Institutes A President Li Xiaolin visited India May state) ties with other countries, it has es- In Burundi, the delegation 19-20. On the 20th, in New Delhi, tablished such relationships with 1,994 visited Ecole Nornale Superieure she signed, with Indian Ambassador localities in 131 countries. Exchanges (Higher Teachers’ Institute) and to China S. Jaishankar, an agreement between friendship cities have become the Confucius Institute at the Uni- between the foreign ministries of the two an important way for Chinese localities versity of Burundi, Abdul’ahat countries to facilitate cooperation and to get in touch with and learn from the Abdulrixit, in the name of China links between Chinese and Indian cities world. It is a major channel to open to Enterprises’ Charity Fund to Af- and provinces/states. Visiting Chinese the outside world and carry out practical rica, donated US$15,000 to each Premier Li Keqiang and Indian Prime cooperation with other countries. institute. He said that the donation Minister Manmohan Singh officiated at India is an important neighbor of showed the profound feelings the the signing ceremony. China, but no friendship-city ties have Chinese people and enterprises According to the agreement, the been established so far. The signing of cherished for the Burundian peo- CPAFFC and the China International the agreement, therefore, is an impor- ple and hoped that China-Africa Friendship Cities Association will work tant step forward in further enhancing friendship would pass on from closely with India’s Ministry of Exter- exchanges and cooperation between lo- generation to generation. nal Affairs to promote relations between calities of China and India and consoli- The heads of the recipient in- local governments to enhance greater dating the public opinion basis for Sino- stitutes thanked the Chinese side people-to-people contacts. Indian friendship. for the donation and the long-term assistance and support for Bu- Visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Indian Prime Minister Man- rundi’s educational cause and ex- mohan Singh attending the signing of cooperation agreements between pressed willingness to make greater China and India. Prime Minister Singh shaking hands with CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin. efforts for Burundi-China friendship and strengthening mutual understanding between the people of the two countries. In Tanzania, Vice President Feng Zuoku, on behalf of the CAPFA, donated US$30,000 to a rural primary school in Mtwara. Minister of State Ghasia attended the donation ceremony. The teachers and students voiced their gratitude and said that they would work and study hard to reciprocate such kindness.

9 Friendship Activities

Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang Meets Chinese Friends

Xu Yiyi

he visiting Vietnamese President evant Chinese departments. T Truong Tan Sang had a cordial Vietnam, as a nation treasuring meeting with Chinese personages friendship and acting in good faith, friendly to Vietnam in the Vietnamese would always remember with grati- Embassy in China on June 20. The tude the valuable support and assis- meeting was jointly arranged by tance the Chinese Party, Government the CPAFFC and the Vietnamese and people had given in its struggle Embassy. for national independence and unifica- Feng Zuoku, Vice President of tion and in the process of postwar re- the CPAFFC, Huang Qingyi, for- construction. mer Vice President of the All-China Vietnam always looked upon the Women’s Federation, He Jun, As- Chinese people as great friends, wheth- sistant Minister of the International er in the past and this would continue Department of the Central Commit- in the future. He was very excited and tee of the Communist Party of China, moved to learn that family members of among over 100 Chinese personages General Chen Geng, General Nguyen including former diplomats stationed Son, Comrade Wang Yiming and Mar- in Vietnam, veterans who fought in tyr Liang Jinsheng had come to the Vietnamese President Truong Tan Vietnam’s war against the U. S., advi- meeting, noting their names would go Sang addressing the meeting sors and medical staff of President Ho down in the history of the Vietnamese Chi Minh, experts and scholars, and forward to this meeting in Beijing to and Chinese revolutions. student representatives. recall the beautiful memories of the re- On Sino-Vietnamese relations, Present also were Vietnamese lationship of “comrades and brothers” Truong Tan Sang emphasized, the Par- Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Thien between Vietnam and China and ensure ty, Government and people of Vietnam Nhan and Vietnamese Ambassador to friendship would be passed on genera- attached great importance to develop- China Nguyen Van Tho. tion after generation. He told those ing a relationship of friendship and all- Having listened to the remarks present that he had instructed the Viet- round cooperation with their Chinese made by Chinese representatives, Pres- namese Foreign Ministry to arrange counterparts, and this was a basic, ident Truong said that he was looking such a meeting in cooperation with rel- consistent and long-term policy with

10 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

top priority. He expressed his pleasure said it was unavoidable for neighbors generation. that in recent years, especially since the to bump against each other on occa- Talking about the achievements of leaders of the two countries decided to sions, and the maritime differences his China visit, President Truong said upgrade the bilateral relationship to that between the two countries in particular that, in the spirit of friendship, sincer- of comprehensive strategic partnership had attracted much attention. With the ity, and in a constructive and forward- of cooperation, bilateral relations had experiences gained in settling the is- looking way, he had talks and meetings seen continuous growth. sues of demarcation of land borders with Chinese leaders. Both sides reit- Physically, Vietnam and China are and Beibu Bay, he believed, the two erated the basic principle of attaching joined by mountains and rivers and that sides, with sincerity and through joint great importance to and unswervingly is an unchangeable fact. They are both efforts, would have the resolve, abil- developing friendly relations and com- socialist countries under the leadership ity and wisdom to properly resolve the prehensive cooperation between Viet- of the Communist Party. The two ships maritime issue. nam and China, and pledged to work of state have withstood storms and This would conform to the in- together to maintain a peaceful and continued to sail steadily forward. His- terests of bilateral relations and be in stable environment to achieve common tory has proved that friendly coopera- accordance with international law and development. tion and common development on the practices, and would jointly create a The two sides reached consensus basis of equality, mutual respect and better future of bilateral relations. He on further enhancing political mu- mutually beneficial results are a correct hoped that the youth of the two coun- tual trust and agreed to look upon the choice for both. This also conforms to tries would shoulder the historic task other side’s development as an oppor- the common desires and interests of the and mission, and together with older tunity for its own development. They two peoples. generations carry on and carry forward also agreed to strengthen mutually When talking about the problems Vietnam-China friendship, so that this beneficial practical cooperation in all confronting them, President Truong friendship would last generation after fields.

Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang with chief participants of the meeting

11 In Other Lands

Make Friends Through Calligraphy and Painting ——On the Eighth “Say It As It Is” Delegation’s Visit to the U. S.

Sun Tao

“Fan paintings with images of a reporter from Xinhua News Agency fessor of the China Central Academy of Chinese culture such as spring pet- in Washington D.C. on June 18 when Fine Arts (CCAFA), visited the United als, green willows, galloping horses reporting the art exhibition Beautiful States from June 17 to 18, 2013. In the and swimming fish are on display in China——Fan Paintings from the Na- belief “art has no national boundaries a century-old European-style building tional Academy of Painting. The exhibi- and culture conveys friendship”, the in Washington D.C., giving American tion was sponsored by the Chinese Peo- delegation called on four Senators and visitors a fine opportunity to appreciate ple’s Association for Friendship with two members of House of Representa- this unique genre of Chinese art.” Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) as part of tives and mounted the art exhibition “The Beautiful China exhibition the activities of the eighth “Say It As It in the Meridian International Center shows the richness of Chinese cul- Is” Delegation involving face-to-face in the nation’s capital, hoping that culture with simple, elegant, witty and exchanges with U.S. Congressmen. tural and art exchanges would help the unique art composition and approaches The delegation, headed by US Congressmen learn more about and through the paintings of Chinese land- CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin and better understand China. scapes, flowers and birds, figures, etc. composed of Zhao Wei, Vice Presi- CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin and on a fan surface.” dent of the China National Academy of her party met with Iowa Republican These vivid words were written by Painting (CNAP) and Chen Ping, Pro- Senator Charles Grassley, Hawaii Dem- The delegation calling on Wyoming Republican Senator Mike Enzi in his office on Capitol Hill

12 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 ocratic Senator Mazie Hirono, Califor- aesthetic experience nia Democratic Senator Dianne Fein- and more scope for stein, Wyoming Republican Senator imagination, which Mike Enzi, Nevada Republican Con- was of great impor- gressman Mark Amodei and Texas Re- tance to the develop- publican Congressman Pete Sessions. ment of culture in President Li said, since 2002, the both countries. CPAFFC had organized seven “Say It The six U.S. As It Is” delegations of ordinary Chi- Congressmen showed nese people including farmers, work- great interest in tra- ers, teachers, students and private en- ditional Chinese arts trepreneurs to visit the United States, and asked detailed meeting a total of over a hundred US questions about the Congressmen. As culture transcends characteristics of Chi- Professor Chen Ping from the China Central Academy social systems and development gaps nese fan painting and of Fine Arts introducing traditional Chinese art works to Iowa Republican Senator Charles Grassley and serves as ties linking people’s heart the major differences and a bridge promoting people’s friend- between Chinese gongbi painting and strated his calligraphic skills by writing ship, the choice of the members of the ink painting. They said that they were well-wishing words such as “Chinese eighth delegation had fallen on famous not artists, but their enjoyment of tradi- and Western cultures complement each Chinese painters and calligraphers. tional Chinese art and pursuit of beauty other”, “China-U.S. friendship will She hoped that, through learning could transcend linguistic and cultural pass on from generation to generation”, about and appreciating the features of barriers and that they greatly appreci- and “Friendship, Peace, Cooperation, traditional Chinese art, U.S. Congress- ated the artistic attainments of the Chi- Development”. men would gain a deeper understanding nese painters. They also expressed their The exhibition gave American of China and give greater support for thanks to the delegation for contribut- people of all walks of life an opportu- China-U.S. cultural and art exchanges. ing to China-U.S. cultural and art ex- nity to appreciate the charm of Chinese Two Chinese painters on the dele- change. painting and calligraphy art and have a gation expressed their wish to strength- The Beautiful China was being visual experience of traditional Chinese en cultural exchanges and friendly presented for the first time. On display culture. cooperation between the two countries were 44 traditional fan paintings of Making friends through one’s and answered the questions the Con- landscapes, flower and bird motifs, and own learning was the most admired gressmen put forth about the character- figures. and sublime way of making friends in istics and theories of Chinese painting. CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin, ancient China, and Chinese painting CNAP Vice President Zhao Wei Chinese Ambassador to the United and calligraphy are the essence of the said the Academy had held a series of States Cui Tiankai, CNAP Vice Presi- country’s traditional culture. The charm international cultural exchange activi- dent Zhao Wei and President and CEO of traditional Chinese culture shortened ties in recent years, which greatly en- of the Meridian International Center the distance between the Chinese peo- hanced mutual understanding. China’s Stuart Holliday, together with more ple and the U.S. Congress. reform and opening up policy had cre- than a hundred people from political, The CPAFFC is looking forward ated unprecedented opportunities for cultural and business circles as well as to inviting people from all sectors to Chinese contemporary artists to enjoy people-to-people organizations of the join in future “Say It As It Is” delega- freedom in artistic creation. United States attended the opening re- tions so that more U.S. Congressmen Cultural exchange between China ception and visited the exhibition. can learn about the real China from dif- and the U.S. would give artists greater Professor Chen Ping demon- ferent perspectives.

13 Forums China-Poland Local Cooperation Forum Held in Poland

Lu Yanxia

s a positive result of Premier Wen AJiabao’s visit to Poland in 2012, the CPAFFC and the provinces of Pomerania, West Pomerania and Lesser Poland co-sponsored the China-Poland Local Cooperation Forum in Gdansk, the Pomeranian capital, from April 21 to 22, 2013. With the theme of “China-Poland local cooperation: working hand in hand for prosperity and development in the 21st century”, the forum set up four special topic panels on economy, energy, environmental protection, and culture, education and tourism. Other CPAFFC Vice President Li Jianping reading out the speech by Uyunqimg, activities included an evening party for President of the China-EU Association at the forum presenting the “Best Local Cooperation Award”, an “Oriental Flavor” concert, ticipants were representatives from 16 ping, CPAFFC Vice President, read out the Chinese and Polish painting and cal- provinces and provincial capital cities. message sent by Uyunqimg, President ligraphy exhibition, and a “Window of of the China-EU Association, speaking Shanghai” community library book do- Great importance attached to the about the new Chinese administration’s nation ceremony. forum by both sides to build a new outline of governance and focus of its More than 600 Chinese and Pol- platform for local cooperation work and objectives of development ish representatives attended the forum. Since China and Poland estab- in all fields. She noted that the forum Among over 130 Chinese representa- lished a strategic partnership in De- would definitely boost bilateral cooper- tives were about 100 representatives cember 2011, contacts and exchanges ation in the fields of economy, tourism, from local governments of 22 provinces between local governments and people culture and education. and cities including Beijing and Shang- have become more active and coopera- Ding Xuexiang, representative hai Municipalities, Yunnan, Guang- tion in the fields of economy, trade, cul- of the Mayor of Shanghai, said Poland dong, Liaoning and Sichuan Provinces, ture, education, science and technology was a major country in central and and Jinan, Changsha, Shijiazhuang and have further expanded. This forum, as eastern Europe occupying an important Shangqiu cities; 29 enterprise represen- the first large-scale event of exchanges position in the EU. Shanghai had been tatives and seven artists including cal- between localities of the two countries, working hard to develop cooperation ligraphers, painters, singers and an erhu was of much importance. with Polish local governments. It sup- performer. Among about 470 Polish par- At the opening ceremony, Li Jian- ported Chinese enterprises in their ef-

14 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 forts to “go global” and welcomes Pol- tries. Though the cultures of the two nomic and trade cooperation attracted ish enterprises to come to Shanghai. He countries were different, each had its greatest attention. At the panel on the believed bilateral cooperation would own charm. Culture played a special economy, Li Jiang, Deputy Governor promote common prosperity and devel- important role in promoting coopera- of Yunnan Province, delivered a speech opment. tion linking the two peoples together. entitled “Prospects of Development of In her speech, Cheng Hong, Vice Jerzy Pomianowski, Polish Dep- China-Poland Economic Cooperation”, Mayor of Beijing, stressed that local uty Foreign Minister, said, the estab- offering four suggestions that the two governments of the two countries must lishment of the Poland-China strategic sides should work jointly to open mar- work hard to conduct practical coop- partnership would surely promote co- kets, promote agricultural cooperation, eration. “China and Poland are strongly operation between local governments strengthen cooperation in tourism and complementary economically and have of the two countries, helping elevate expand cultural exchanges. He invited a huge space for cooperation. The Bei- the level of relations between the two Polish personages of various social sec- jing Municipal Government encour- countries and international cooperation. tors to attend the Kunming Export and ages and supports Chinese enterprises Xu Jian, Chinese Ambassador to Import Commodities Fair and the First with real strength to invest and develop Poland, and Tadeusz Chomicki, Pol- China-South Asia Expo to be held in in Poland, and welcomes more Polish ish Ambassador to China, spoke at Kunming from June 6 to 10, 2013. enterprises to seek development oppor- the forum’s press conference and the Hu Zhirong, Chairman of the tunities in our city.” summing-up meeting of the four pan- United World Chinese Association, Olgierd Dziekonski, Minister of els on special topics. Ambassador Xu gave a speech entitled “Ecological the Polish President’s Chancellery, said the showed local cooperation was Security and Urbanization Process”, gave an opening address to the forum an important component part of China- noting that, in the process of urbaniza- on behalf of President Bronislaw Ko- Poland relations with a unique role in tion, the green economy and ecological morowski, whose video speech was boosting exchanges and cooperation in security were of paramount importance played, showing the great importance various fields and also would help push as a growth model for attaining devel- the Polish Government attached to the forward a continuous in-depth development and prosperity without exhaust- event. Dziekonski expressed a belief opment of the China-Poland strategic ing natural resources or damaging the that the forum would add new contents partnership. environment. to the agreement on Poland-China stra- Ambassador Chomicki said the In his speech entitled “Environ- tegic partnership. forum was the largest-scale regional mental Protection, Energy Conserva- In his video speech, President Ko- cooperation forum held so far by the tion and Emission Reduction”, Cheng morowski offered congratulations on two countries with great potential and Senhua, Chairman of the Board of Di- the convening of the inaugural forum, broad prospects for cooperation in vari- rectors of Beijing Goldway Hatek En- giving participants of both sides the ous fields. The forum hopefully would vironment Protection Technology Co., chance to explore possibilities of bilat- be institutionalized, to be held regularly Ltd., pointed out, making rational use eral cooperation in the economic, cul- in rotation. of energy resources was both a must for tural and educational areas. He hoped protecting natural ecology and human the event would promote bilateral eco- Special topic panels rich in content environment, and an important means nomic and trade ties, and contribute to and clear in intent of cooperation for humankind to solve the problems attaining balanced trade between the The set-up of the four special top- of survival and development. He hoped two countries. ic panels fully embodied the pragma- that his company would exchange Mieczyslaw Struk, Governor of tism of the forum and extensive fields needed goods with Polish counterparts Pomerania, stressed the importance of for cooperation. Among them the pan- and make joint efforts to conserve and learning and strengthening exchanges els on economy, energy and environ- make good use of energy resources. and cooperation between the two coun- mental protection for developing eco- Xin Yubo, General Manager of

15 Forums

Beijing Hanhuang Leather Maintain- At the Oriental Flavor sympho- n a sunny day in early summer, ing Service Co., Ltd., delivered a ny concert held during the forum, Liu Oabout 320 guests including 100 speech entitled “Opportunities and Keqing, a Chinese-European baritone, from 19 French-speaking African Basis of Cooperation between Chinese and his wife, and Tan Yong, an erhu countries gathered in Jinan, Shandong Private Enterprises and Their Foreign performer, in cooperation with the Po- Province for the Second Dialogue Counterparts”, noting that Chinese pri- land Baltic Symphony Orchestra, gave between Chinese and African Governors vate entrepreneurs were changing their excellent performances. and Mayors. The aim was to explore image of “producing cheap goods”, The exhibition of Chinese and cooperation between Chinese and making preparations for technology Polish calligraphic works and paintings African local governments and consider upgrading, business management re- displayed 20 creations by calligrapher future prospects of bilateral economic molding and product innovation in an Zhou Hongzhou and painter An Jianhua and trade ties. effort to create their own famous inter- together with more than 20 of works by Today, Africa has become one of national brands. Polish Sinologist Edward Kajdanski. the regions with the fastest economic At the panel on culture, several CPAFFC Vice President Li Jian- growth in the world. It has maintained Chinese participants delivered speeches ping and Kajdanski spoke at the open- a rate of over five percent for more than on “Satisfactory Response to the Spirit ing ceremony of the exhibition, say- 10 years, and become the third global of Traditional Chinese Culture”, “Mu- ing art exchanges were a good way to “growth pole” after Asia and Latin Amer- seums in the 21st Century”, and “Pro- communicate and enhance mutual un- ica. With China-Africa relations entering motion of Regional Ethnic Culture”. Li derstanding and friendship, and hop- the fast lane of social and economic de- Yongfeng, Executive Deputy Director of ing the two countries would hold vari- velopment, the dialogue sponsored by the the Executive Committee of China Cul- ous kinds of cultural exchange activi- CPAFFC came at an opportune time. ture Juncture Project Association, pre- ties so as to further develop traditional On the Chinese side, among those sided over the panel. He briefed on con- friendship and friendly cooperation present were Abdul’ahat Abdulrixit, struction of the World War II Museum between the two peoples. former Vice Chairman of the National in Weifang City, Shandong Province, A book donation ceremony was Committee of the Chinese People’s Po- and on behalf of Weifang City Museum, also held, at which Shanghai donated litical Consultative Conference and Di- presented an album of paintings created to “Window of Shanghai” community rector General of the Forum on China- by painters in Weifang to the planned library in Gdansk 180 books on learn- Africa Local Government Cooperation; Poland World War II Museum. ing Chinese language as well as on Guo Shuqing, Governor of Shandong; At the four special topic panels, China’s politics, economy and tour- Li Xiaolin, President of the CPAFFC; 24 Polish participants spoke on such ism, albums and digital pictures. Xia Geng, Deputy Governor of Shan- subjects as feasibility of investment At the awarding ceremony held dong, representatives from the Ministry in Poland, priority investment areas, on the evening of April 22, CPAFFC of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Com- regulations on project bidding, proj- Vice President Li Jianping and Am- merce, the China Development Bank, ects for investment in communication, bassador Chomicki conferred the and the Export-Import Bank of China, infrastructure and energy resources, Best Local Cooperation Award on as well as 17 mayors and representatives Poland’s export trade, financial service Shanghai-Pomerania Province, Liao- of enterprises in Shandong. agencies, environmental protection ning Province-Silesia Province, Guang- The African visitors included Jean system and technology, cooperation in dong Province-West Pomerania, and Ping, former Chairman of the African the film industry between Poland and Shenzhen City-Poznan City for their Union Commission; Arame Ndoye, China, superior disciplines in Poland’s outstanding achievements in China- Minister of Land Planning and Local institutions of higher learning, coop- Poland local exchanges and presented Collectives of Senegal; Jean Francois eration with China in education and cups and certificates to the awarded Emane, former Prime Minister of Gabon training, Poland’s tourism scheme, etc. provinces and cities. and current Mayor of Libreville; local

16 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

Second Dialogue Between Chinese and African Governors and Mayors Held in Jinan

Tang Ruimin

government officials including mayors of Understanding on Cooperation with Ltd. The modern equipment and scien- of capital cities and governors of prov- the African side. Both Chinese and Af- tific management of these companies inces and regions, as well as diplomats rican entrepreneurs felt that they had left a deep impression, encouraging from the embassies of the 19 countries gained a lot from the dialogue and that them to strengthen cooperation with in China and personages from econom- the cooperation between the two sides Shandong in all areas. ic and trade sectors. had huge potential and bright prospects. Though the dialogue only lasted Focused on the theme of “promot- During the meeting, Li Xiaolin three days, both sides were satisfied ing prosperity of localities through de- conferred upon Jean Ping the title of with its results. China and Africa are veloping industries and infrastructure”, Friendship Ambassador in recognition separated by vast oceans but share the Chinese and African participants of the contributions this 70-year old a belief in pursuing their respective discussed cooperation between Shan- man of Chinese and Gabonese descent dreams — the “Chinese dream” of re- dong and African provinces and cities had made to promoting Africa-China alizing great national rejuvenation and and building cooperative ties between friendship and presented him with a the “African dream” of achieving unity, their enterprises. certificate and medal. development and revitalization. Hence, A companion exhibition on Shan- More than 100 Africans visited they can work hard side by side, giving dong and the participating African cit- China National Heavy Duty Truck much momentum to the speedy devel- ies was held. At the closing ceremony, Group Co., Ltd., Langchao Group Co., opment of cooperation at the local gov- Shandong Province signed memoranda Ltd., and Linuo Group Holdings Co., ernment level. on further strengthening cooperation The opening session and letters of intent on friendly cooperation respectively with Abidjan District of Cote d’Ivoire, Boke Region of Guin- ea and Sousse Province of Tunisia. The cities of Jinan, Zaozhuang, and Tai’an signed Letters of Intent on the Establish- ment of Friendly and Cooperative Re- lations respectively with their counterparts in Gabon, Morocco, Cameron and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Shandong Branch of the China Chamber of International Com- merce, Shandong Dejian Group Co., Ltd. and Shandong Hi-Speed Group Co., Ltd. separately signed Memoranda

17 Forums

Round-Table Meeting on China and Uzbekistan Strategic Partnership

Wen Guangmei

ound-table meeting — “Strategic R Partnership between China and Uzbekistan: experience, present condition and future” — jointly sponsored by the CPAFFC, China Foundation for International Studies (CFIS), the Center for Political Studies (CPS) of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the China-Central Asia Friendship Association (CCAFA), concluded in Beijing on May 15. It was the first activity held since the signing of a memorandum of understanding on cooperation between the CPAFFC and the Forum of Culture and Ms Gulnara Karimova, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of the Arts of Uzbekistan Foundation (Fund Fund Forum, speaking at the meeting Forum) last year during CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin’s visit to Uzbeki- achievements in various fields over the ation and future prospects. China and stan. It was presided over by CPAFFC past 20 years since the establishment Uzbekistan had established a politi- Vice President Li Jianping. Vice For- of diplomatic relations, analyzed the cal relationship of high-level mutual eign Minister Cheng Guoping, CCAFA present bilateral relationship as well as trust, a cooperation structure of mutual President Zhang Deguang, CFIS Ex- challenges and opportunities they faced benefit and win-win results, and an un- ecutive Chairman Liu Guchang and under the new complex international breakable security barrier, he said. Vice Chairman Yu Zhenqi, and Gulnara situation, and considered the future de- The concept of lasting friendship Karimova, Chairperson of the Board of velopment of the strategic partnership between China and Uzbekistan was Trustees of the Fund Forum and Direc- between China and Uzbekistan. deeply rooted in people’s hearts. He tor of the Center for Political Studies Proceeding from the viewpoint noted that the two countries were at a of Uzbekistan all attended and spoke at of growth in bilateral relations, Vice critical stage of national development the meeting. Foreign Minister Cheng Guoping made and revitalization so that there was a The two sides summed up the positive appraisal of the present situ- great need for them to get even closer

18 Friendly Contacts

to each other than ever before. The close fit between their strategic A Trip of Enhancing Understanding goals provided unlimited opportunities and broad space for development, and he was optimistic about And Cooperation the future. Chairperson Karimova gave Ai Lin a deep analysis of the development of China-Uzbekistan relations in the political, economic and trade, investment, energy, transport and cultural fields. The relationship had become an important strategic component of Central Asian security. Their close cooperation in a series of areas including energy had also achieved substantial results. Further enhancing widespread cooperation between China and Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan was conducive to expanding the space for security and stability of the inland region, she stressed. CCAFA President Zhang De- CPAFFC Vice President Feng Zuoku meeting with President guang said China and Uzbekistan Yousef Al-Amiri of the Kuwait-China Friendship Committee had accumulated much experience in the smooth development of their t the invitation of the CPAFFC, a Strengthening ties between strategic partnership, while still Aseven-member Kuwaiti delegation friendship associations and exploring facing some difficult problems. As led by Yousef Al-Amiri, President of the new channels for exchanges long as they unswervingly adhered Kuwait-China Friendship Committee The KCFC, founded in 2012, is to their chosen path suited to na- (KCFC) and the Kuwait House for composed of 50 successful personages tional conditions, all difficulties National Works (KHNW), paid a goodwill in various social segments of Kuwait, would be overcome properly ac- visit to China from May 16 to 24. among whom four are members of the cording to law, however. The delegation visited Beijing, royal family along with two former Personages of various circles, Shanghai and Zhejiang Province where Kuwaiti ambassadors. Uzbek Ambassador to China Dani- it had talks with leading members of During the meeting with CPAFFC yar Kurbanov and diplomats of the people-to-people friendship organiza- Vice President Feng Zuoku, Yousef Uzbek Embassy in China, totaling tions and relevant enterprises to enhance said the KCFC was working enthu- about 80 people, attended the meet- mutual understanding and explore fields siastically to promote Kuwait-China ing. CCAFA President Zhang and and channels for future exchanges and friendly relations. It hoped to get sup- the Fund Forum Chairperson Kari- cooperation. The delegation also vis- port from the CPAFFC and was willing mova were interviewed by main- ited Yiwu International Trade City and to sponsor the 5th China-Arab Friend- stream media after the meeting. Shanghai World Expo Museum. ship Conference. He said, the KHNW

19 Friendly Contacts holds a Children’s Film Festival every of the China National Petroleum Cor- ment must invest 30 percent of the con- October and welcomed Chinese par- poration (CNPC) and the China Civil tract amount in Kuwaiti society or be ticipation. He suggested the two coun- Engineering Construction Corporation fined six percent of the contract amount tries hold a Kuwait-China Week, set (CCECC). Mao Qiping, Deputy Direc- if they fail to do so), some projects up Chinese language teaching center tor-General of the Overseas Business had been put off. He hoped President in Kuwait, organize student exchanges Department of the CNPC, talked about Yousef would give necessary instruc- as well as promoting exchanges in the the CNPC and its business in Central tions and help in this regard. fields of economy, trade and culture Asia, Africa and Arab countries. Yousef said, the KCFC was de- through mutual visits and forums. Yousef, hopeful of strengthened ties signed to support Kuwait-China eco- Feng Zuoku pledged the with the CNPC, discussed the possibility nomic and trade exchanges. Currently, CPAFFC’s support for the proposed of cooperation in exploiting oil resources the Kuwaiti Government was consider- Kuwait-China exchanges within its ca- in Chad and other African countries. ing expanding airports and other major pacity. He hoped the KCFC under the During his meeting with the del- infrastructure projects. He, himself, was leadership of President Yousef would egation, Liu Zhiming, Vice President of now in charge of the construction of a become an example of friendship-with- the China-Arab Friendship Association museum. He hoped that the CCECC China organizations in Gulf Arab na- (CAFA) and Chairman of the Board of would consider getting involved. tions, and the two friendship organiza- Directors of the CCECC, said the latter Meeting Wang Daxiong, Deputy tions would achieve closer cooperation always attached weight and paid close General Manager of the China Ship- in various fields and further promote attention to Kuwait, and had actively par- ping Group (CSG), Yousef said Kuwait China-Kuwait friendly relations. ticipated in the project bidding for con- had high-quality ports and supporting struction of large-sized bridges and roads. transportation facilities; particularly, Enhancing mutual understanding However, due to the Gulf wars, the completion of the railway network between enterprises of the two frequent changes of Kuwaiti govern- within the countries of the Gulf Coop- countries and boosting ment officials and Kuwait’s reverse eration Council would boost the devel- economic and trade ties investment law (The law stipulates that opment of transportation, especially in During its stay in Beijing, the del- foreign companies that have signed allowing goods to be shipped from Ku- egation had talks with leading officials agreements with the Kuwaiti Govern- wait to Iran, Iraq as well as Egypt and other North African countries. Mao Qiping, Deputy Director General of CNPC’s Overseas Business Depart- Kuwait’s Emir had set two goals ment, at a meeting with the KCFC delegation of development: one was to build Ku- wait into a financial center, and the other to construct the Mubarak Port. Yousef hoped the CSG would take note of this and attach weight to Kuwaiti market. Waleed Al-Qadeeri, member of the KCFC and Chairman of the Com- mittee for Public Facilities of the Ku- waiti National Assembly, said he was involved in logistics business in Ku- wait and hoped to have an opportunity to cooperate with the CSG. In his meeting with the delegation, Vice Mayor of Yiwu City Dong

20 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

Fengming, said Yiwu was making ef- jiang Provincial People’s Association landmarks of Shanghai and Kuwait forts to build an international market of for Friendship with Foreign Countries, City, were similar in appearance, help- the means of production so as to form expressed his hope that friendly con- ing shorten the psychological distance two markets: one for consumer goods tacts between Zhejiang and Hawalli between the two cities to develop con- and the other a production and process- Province of Kuwait would be strength- tacts. ing market to provide greater conve- ened. Yousef said, the architectural style nience for foreign businessmen. Yousef said he was very happy and climate of Shanghai was similar to Besides, every year Yiwu, in co- to visit Hangzhou, a famous historical Kuwait. In Shanghai, he seemed to feel operation with the Ministries and Com- city. Arab businessmen’s impressions he was back home. Every year, during missions of the State Council, holds of China mostly focused on economic the hottest season from June to Au- large economic, trade and cultural exhi- and trade development. The booming gust, 70% of Kuwaiti people and their bitions. Dong hoped, Yousef would in- business in Yiwu and the beautiful en- families traveled abroad on vacation. troduce Yiwu’s market and exhibitions vironment of Hangzhou had enriched Tourists from Gulf Arab countries pay to Kuwaiti businessmen and encourage his understanding of China in its entire- more attention to the service quality of more of them to visit the city for talks ty. He would tell more Kuwaiti people hotels, food and sightseeing. on cooperation. about these cities and encourage them Most of Kuwaiti people get infor- Yousef said he was willing to in- to visit China to experience different mation about tourism from domestic troduce the development of Yiwu and cities and experience their different newspapers. He hoped, Shanghai would exhibitions to Kuwaiti businessmen. ambiences. use the media to promote tourism to He suggested that the two sides orga- Wang Xiaoshu, Executive Vice fill the blank in Kuwait’s promotion of nize meetings for the Kuwaiti and Chi- President of the Shanghai Municipal China’s tourist market. Wang promised nese entrepreneurs to facilitate com- People’s Association for Friendship to pass the information to the Shanghai munications and cooperation between with Foreign Countries, spoke at a ban- tourism department, urging it to give privately owned enterprises of the two quet held in honor of the delegation. He more attention to Kuwait’s tourist mar- countries. He hoped that Yiwu would said the Oriental Pearl TV Tower and ket and promote friendly exchanges be- give consideration to build a Chinese the Kuwait Water Towers, respectively tween the two sides. commodity center in Kuwait. Ruan Zhongxun, Executive Vice President of the Zhejiang Provincial People’s Vice Mayor Dong said that talks Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, with the Kuwaiti friends between entrepreneurs of the two countries could be held simultaneously with Yiwu’s large-scale exhibitions so as to achieve win-win results through the economic and trade platform provided by Yiwu. When conditions were right, Yiwu could send delegations to Kuwait to explore the possibilities of building the proposed Chinese commodity center there.

Promoting Chinese cities and strengthening cooperation in tourism Meeting the delegation, Ruan Zhongxun, Vice President of the Zhe-

21 Friendly Contacts

Delegation of Myanmar-China Friendship Association Visits China

Xu Yiyi

t the invitation of the CPAFFC, People’s Congress and honorary Presi- meeting with Feng Zuoku, Vice Presi- Aa nine-member delegation of dent of the China-Myanmar Friendship dent of the CPAFFC and President of the Myanmar-China Friendship Association (CMFA), Wang Yi, Foreign the CMFA, to sign a memorandum of Association (MCFA) headed by its Minister, Li Jinjun, Vice Minister of the cooperation. president U Sein Win Aung visited International Department of the Central The delegation also attended a Beijing and Tianjin May 28-June 4. Committee of the CPC; and Tian Gui- seminar with Chinese entrepreneurs This was the first visit to China ming, Deputy Secretary General of the and visited some enterprises. since MCFA was founded in April 2013 Tianjin Municipal Committee of the to establish closer ties and cooperation Chinese People’s Political Consultative Aspire to Consolidate and Strengthen with relevant Chinese organizations. Conference and Vice President of the China-Myanmar Traditional Those meeting the delegation included Tianjin Municipal People’s Association Friendship Xu Jialu, former Vice Chairman of the for Friendship with Foreign Countries. Xu Jialu cited a Chinese proverb Standing Committee of the National U Sein Win Aung had a working that, “A distant relative is not as helpful as a near neighbor” and stressed that CMFA Honorary President Xu Jialu (R.5 in the front row) meeting with the China and Myanmar were both close MCFA delegation relatives and neighbors, and friendly ties were the only choice for the two countries. They should keep frequent contacts, strengthen mutual understanding and maintain communication. “Coun- tries need dialogue between each other not confrontation, and the world needs peace not war,” Xu said. Respecting each other’s history and culture was the proper basis of state-to-state friendly relationship. The “Paukphaw” (fra- ternal) friendship between China and Myanmar should last for generations. Wang Yi quoted the late Marshal Chen Yi’s poem To a Burmese Friend I live at the upper stream,

22 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

You live at the lower stream. We deeply love each other, We drink from the same river. Wang said, China and Myanmar were good neighbors, good partners and good brothers and shared the same fate. To consolidate and strengthen traditional friendly relations was conducive to the stability of border areas, economic growth and mutually beneficial cooperation. The Chinese new administration would continue adhering to the bilateral traditional friendship and carry out more friendly policies based on the Five Principles of Peace- ful Coexistence. It was willing to provide help and support without any po- The MCFA delegation visiting the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City litical strings attached for Myanmar in its process of reform. Li Jinjun observed that China- that first recognized the People’s Re- Any problems during contacts Myanmar friendship has a long history. public of China after its founding, and should be handled properly through During Myanmar President U Thein had actively supported New China in friendly consultation. The two sides Sein’s visit to China last April, the two its efforts to regain its legitimate status should guard against anyone with ul- heads of state had reached important in the United Nations, as well as giving terior motives attempting to politicize consensus on further deepening the firm support to China in negotiations economic issues, magnify individual comprehensive strategic cooperation on its accession to the World Trade Or- issues and complicate simple issues. partnership. China would adhere to ganization. Under the new circumstances, the two its good-neighborly policy and strive Meanwhile, China had always sides needed to fully control the gener- to make its own development benefit given strong support to Myanmar on al direction of bilateral relations from a neighbors like Myanmar and promote matters of principle concerning national strategic viewpoint to ensure the good- common regional development. interests, and particularly, provided neighborly relationship to stay on the U Sein Win Aung said the long selfless support for Myanmar when the track of healthy and steady develop- Myanmar-China relationship was a country suffered from sanctions imposed ment. relationship firmly established on the by foreign countries, which the people To maintain, consolidate and basis of the Five Principles of Peace- of Myanmar would always remember. develop the social basis of China- ful Coexistence. Over the past 60-odd Now, Myanmar was carrying out Myanmar friendship was an important years, the two countries had always political, economic and social reforms, task and mission of the friendship or- treated each other on an equal footing, and widening its opening to the out- ganizations of the two countries, Wang and helped each other sincerely. There side world. He hoped Chinese friends stressed. He hoped the two friendship had been no serious problems. would show understanding to some un- associations would actively carry out The two countries had success- stable factors and different voices that exchange activities and pledged that fully resolved issues related to their appeared during the process. Under no the Chinese Government and the For- common border some 2,200 kilometers circumstances would Myanmar change eign Ministry in particular would ren- long, setting a good example for oth- its friendly attitude and policy towards der necessary support. ers. Myanmar was one of the countries China, he stressed.

23 Friendly Contacts

Establish Ties and Discuss honored to be personally involved, as possible. Plans for Cooperation as a former Myanmar ambassador to After the meeting, the two sides The CPAFFC and the MCFA held China, in the further development of signed a memorandum of cooperation, a working meeting in Beijing. ties, and very glad to see bilateral rela- unanimously agreeing to set up a mech- During it, Feng Zuoku extended tions keeping up good momentum after anism of mutual visits, carry out coop- congratulations on the establishment of the political transformation in Myan- eration in various areas, hold a “Bring- the MCFA. The fact that MCFA Presi- mar. Just as the consensus reached ing light tour” and “China-Myanmar dent U Sein Win Aung had led a dele- between President U Thein Sein and border friendship gala”, among other gation to visit China only one month af- President Xi Jinping stated, Myanmar activities, at a proper time and join the ter the establishment of the association and China should always resist external multi-lateral cooperation mechanism reflected strong aspiration for develop- disturbance and carry on the traditional within the framework of the Confer- ing Myanmar-China relations. Feng “Paukphaw” friendship from genera- ence on China-ASEAN People-to-Peo- expressed his gratitude to the MCFA tion to generation. The MCFA had been ple Friendship Organizations. for donating rice worth US$66,000 founded at the right time. Despite its through the Chinese Embassy in Myan- youth it would enthusiastically promote Economic and Trade Exchanges mar as soon as earthquakes occurred in the cause of Myanmar-China friend- and Mutually Beneficial Lushan, Sichuan Province. ship. Cooperation Explored Meanwhile, the China-Japan U Sein Win Aung expressed his Most of the members of the dele- Friendship Association together with willingness to strengthen people-to- gation were well-known entrepreneurs the Japan Sumitomo Chemical Co. Ltd. people cooperation with the Chinese engaged in jade, mineral resources, planned to donate through the MCFA side in various areas. He thanked the real estate, building, new energy, 40,000 mosquito nets to help poor ar- Chinese side for donating the mosquito medicine, and telecommunications in- eas in Myanmar prevent malaria. nets and said, the Myanmar side would dustries. During its stay in China, the U Sein Win Aung said he felt implement the donation project as soon delegation called on China Nonfer- The Glorious Myanmar Energy Investment Co., Ltd. donating to rous Metal Mining (Group) Co., Ltd., Myanmar 1,000 sets of solar power generation systems Southeast Asia Pipeline Co. under China National Petroleum Corpora- tion (CNPC), and the North Petroleum & Chemical (Group) Co., attended a seminar with Chinese entrepreneurs, had discussions with their counterparts and reached some initial intentions on cooperation. Coordinated by the CPAFFC, Glorious Myanmar Energy Investment Co., Ltd. donated to Myanmar 1,000 off-grid independent solar power generation systems during a ceremony in Beijing. In Tianjin, the delegation visited the Binhai New Area and Sino-Singa- pore Eco-City. The Chinese enterprises pledged to pay more attention to invest- ing in Myanmar.

24 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

Latin American Mayors Delegation Visits China

Hua Jiaguang

Latin American mayoral delegation Avisited Beijing and Tianjin from May 19 to 26 at the invitation of the CPAFFC. Of the 55 members, 23 were mayors from nine countries, namely Costa Rica, Panama, Honduras, Salvador, Ecuador, Colombia, Bolivia, Paraguay and Mexico. They came to learn the experiences of China’s localities in urban economic, social, cultural and tourism development, enhance mutual understanding, establish mutual trust and friendship, through exploring new ways of exchange, and tapping new po- tentials for cooperation. CPAFFC Vice President Xie Yuan hosting a dinner in honor of the delegation Impressed by China’s Speed achievements, as well as details of the invited the visiting mayors to join the of Development enterprises located in the zone and their World Tourism City Federation head- On the afternoon of May 20, the future product development direction. quartered in Beijing. delegation visited the headquarters of The mayors showed a keen interest in During the meeting, an agreement Baidu Online Network Technology various new high-tech products and was reached for Mexico City to carry (Beijing) Co., Ltd. Guo Guangyi, Di- technologies, and hoped they could in- out a plan for promoting and showcas- rector of the International Media Rela- troduce the mature technology of Chi- ing Beijing Tourism Culture. tions, introduced the company’s his- nese enterprises to their countries. In the afternoon, Sun Shuo, Dep- tory, showed delegates new products uty Head of Xicheng District, together and discussed Internet development. Explore New Areas of Cooperation with people in charge of urban con- The visitors expressed their admiration On the morning of May 21, the struction, conducted a fruitful exchange of the rapid development of China’s In- delegation held a discussion with the with the delegation on urban manage- ternet technology. Beijing Tourism Development Com- ment and development of Xicheng, the On the morning of May 22, they mittee on tourism management at the protection of historical and cultural visited the Yizhuang Beijing Economic city level. Deputy Director Yu Debin heritage sites, city planning and com- and Technological Development Zone, briefed the guests on Beijing’s experi- munity construction. learning about its construction and ences during an in-depth exchange and The Latin American mayors ex-

25 Friendly Contacts pressed their strong wish to develop direct contact with Chinese localities at various levels as part of an enhanced program to further develop friendly exchanges between Chinese and Latin American cities. The delegation drove to visit Tianjin on May 23. Tian Guiming, Deputy Secretary General of Tianjin Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Con- ference and Vice President of Tianjin People’s Association for Friendship The delegation having a working meeting with leading members of the China- Latin America and Caribbean Friendship Association with Foreign Countries, hosted a luncheon for them during which the two governments and enterprises. the CPAFFC compound where it had a sides had a sincere and pleasant con- working meeting on local government versation. Broad Prospect for Friendship-city exchanges, especially those involved In the afternoon, the delegation Development Between China the friendship-city concept, with Deng visited the Tianjin City Planning Ex- and Latin America Lan, Deputy Secretary General of the hibition Hall and the Sino-Singapore As an important part of Sino-Latin China-Latin America and Caribbean Tianjin Eco-City in Binhai New Area to American friendly relations, friendship- Friendship Association. see how the area along the banks of the city exchanges play an irreplaceable Deng gave an account of the his- Haihe and the sea coast was being de- role in promoting mutual understanding tory and current situation of China’s veloped. They deeply admired China’s between the peoples, expanding further friendship cities and discussed exten- achievements in new city development cooperation and achieving valuable sively with the mayors on how to in- by using green building technology for development in many areas between crease the number of twinned friend- the construction of the eco-city, apply- China and Latin American countries. ship cities. Members of the delegation ing wind and solar energy, introducing There is great potential for coop- listened with great interest. They took high-quality personnel, etc., and they eration in urban development, tourism notes and asked many questions. hoped to cooperate in green develop- culture, agriculture, mining, and in- The meeting proceeded in an en- ment technology with Chinese local frastructure construction between lo- livened atmosphere. At end, Deputy cal governments. The Secretary General Deng Lan and Head Latin American mayors visiting the Exhibition of the Yizhuang Beijing Economic and Technological Devel- Latin American side of the delegation Jose Antonio together opment Zone was most enthusias- presented commemorative certificates of tic about cooperation the visit to members of the delegation. with China and hoped Xie Yuan, Vice President of the to achieve rapid de- CPAFFC, hosted a banquet in honor of velopment by obtain- the delegation at the Peace Palace of ing support such as the CPAFFC. The Vice President made investment, technol- a welcoming speech. Jose Antonio ex- ogy and drawing on pressed his sincere gratitude to the Chi- Chinese experiences. nese hosts for the hospitality accorded On the morn- to the delegation and extended an invi- ing of May 24, the tation for a Chinese local government delegation came to delegation to visit Latin America.

26 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

SPF Delegation Visits China Seeking Cooperation and Exchanges

Xing Shuhua

ean-Louis Callens, Secretary received by the local people. tries in public sports and cultural facili- J General of Federation du Nord of The French delegation toured the ties was not large, he observed. Secours Populaire Francais (SPF), led Beijing Olympic Park and the Anyang While in Anyang, the delega- an eight-member delegation composed Municipal Park in Henan Province, and tion and representatives of the Anyang of the mayors of Lille, Gravelines and watched a square dance performance Municipal Government planted trees Douchy-les-Mines in the Departement in Anyang, Henan Province, and kite of China-France friendship together du Nord of the Region Nord Pas de flying by tens of thousands of people in the International Friendship For- Calais and federation members to in Weifang, Shandong Province. Ber- est. The Mayor of Douchy-les Mines, visit China from April 15 to 22. The trand Ringot, Mayor of Gravelines, was Michel Lefebvre, said that the activity visit was made at the invitation of the deeply impressed at the obvious way was of great significance. “The friend- CPAFFC. The delegation visited Beijing the Chinese Government paid great at- ship between France and China has a and Henan and Shandong provinces, tention to people’s wellbeing and made long history. Trees as source of life will witnessing China’s social development. huge investments and efforts to enrich symbolize the evergreen nature of the They attended the China International people’s spare time. The gap between friendship between the two countries Friendship Cities Mayors (Weifang) China and developed European coun- and the rich fruits to be produced by bi- Ecological Summit and the launch ceremony of the International Kite Cities The delegation in Penglai, Shandong Alliance, and had in-depth discussions with relevant government departments and schools on closer city-to-city cooperation and youth exchanges.

Enhancing Understanding and Friendship Since the CPAFFC and the SPF established contact in 2007, they have organized four youth delegation exchange visits, among which three Chi- nese youth sports and cultural delegations visited the region Nord Pas de Calais and were warmly welcomed and

27 Friendly Contacts lateral cooperation.” terprises engaged in processing agri- delegation of the Morocco-China cultural products to visit France and AFriendship and Exchange Association Exploring Potential of set up enterprises there. (MCFEA) led by Chairman Mohammed Cooperation Between Lille and Douchy-les-Mines Khalil visited China from June 1 to 7 at the Chinese and French Localities also hoped to conduct cooperation invitation of the CPAFFC. The delegation The delegation had talks with in culture and education with lo- visited the Beijing Sports University, leading officials of Anyang, Wei- cal governments in Shandong and Confucius Institute Headquarters and the fang, Yantai and Penglai respec- invited Chinese delegations to visit 50 Moganshan Road Contemporary Art tively, on possible cooperation in French colleges and universities, District in Shanghai, and had a discussion industry, tourism, education and and cultural centers to enhance un- with teachers and students of Shanghai transportation. derstanding and communications. International Studies University. The Departement du Nord, with abundant resources in nuclear power, Promoting China-France Understanding Between the Two fishery and port transportation, is ea- Youth Exchanges Friendship Associations Enhanced ger to cooperate with China. As its The China-France youth ex- At a welcome banquet, CPAFFC industrial structure and development change project, a long-term cooper- President Li Xiaolin said that, although orientation are similar to those of ation program between the CPAFFC it was her first meeting with Chairman Shandong, both sides were enthusi- and the SPF, has achieved great Khalil, she knew he was an old friend of astic about plans to carry out coop- success in enhancing mutual under- the Chinese people, had visited China eration in various fields, particularly standing and friendships. At the time many times and contributed a lot to pro- to an open trade route between Yan- of writing, the SPF was planning to moting bilateral friendship. She looked tai and Dunkirk to boost economic send a 20-member youth delegation forward to visiting his beautiful country growth and create employment op- to China with the theme of “Sports this October, having been invited to at- portunities for the two port cities. and Music—Language of Unity” in tend the Fourth Congress of United Cities Gravelines Mayor Bertrand Ringot July 2013, using sports competi- and Local Governments and the Second expressed the hope to establish tions and joint concerts to enhance World Summit of Local and Regional friendship-city relations with Penglai. friendship between the younger gen- Leaders in Rabat. The delegation visited the eration of the two countries. Chairman Khalil said the Arab mushroom plantation Guxianyuan Nord-pas-de Calais with its world had been experiencing some turbu- and the mushroom processing superior geographic location and lence. On the premise of maintaining do- workshop of the Fanglu Agricul- convenient communications was mestic stability, Morocco had introduced tural Science and Technology Co. the largest pre-games training base some changes such as a new constitution Ltd. in Zouping County, Shandong for the London Olympics and more under which non-governmental organiza- Province. Mme. Ringot, wife of the than a dozen countries sent their tions could play a bigger role in national Gravelines mayor, appreciated this teams there. Now it has become the political life. To adapt, the MCFEA car- model of industrial operation of ag- sports training and competition cen- ried out a reorganization last year, setting riculture integrating industrialized ter for Europe’s high-level sports up six special committees and enlarging production of edible fungi, indus- events. Jean-Louis Callens, head of its membership. It kept frequent contact trialization-driven growth, special the delegation, said, all the cities in with public personages and the Chinese food services and popularization of Nord-pas-de Calais welcome Chi- Embassy in Morocco and held a series of science and technology. She hoped nese youth to have sports exchanges activities for promoting bilateral friendly that the two sides would carry out with local youth and sports clubs relations. cooperation in eco-agriculture and during their winter and summer va- Jaafar Alj Hakim, Moroccan Am- invited delegations of Chinese en- cations. bassador to China, said friendly relations

28 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

Delegation of Morocco-China Friendship and Exchange Association Visits China

Ai Lin between Morocco and China could be Morocco Entrepreneurs Forum, and the China relations would benefit the peo- traced back to the famous navigator Reception to Commemorate Ibn Bat- ple of the two countries, which would Ibn Battuta in the Yuan Dynasty (1271- tuta. also be conducive to the growth of 1368) and exemplified today in Chair- The present regional situation relations between China and Africa in man Khalil, who was not only the first provided new opportunities for the de- general. The MCFEA would like to co- Moroccan student to graduate from velopment of China-Arab and China- operate with the CPAFFC in people-to- China, but also the first doctor of tradi- Africa relations. Morocco, as one of people exchanges, and hoped to push tional Chinese medicine in Morocco. the most stable countries in Africa and for more practical results in friendship- Ambassador Jaafar, who estab- enjoying a good geographical location, city exchanges. lished the Association of Ibn Battuta signed the Free Trade Agreement with after assuming his post in China, said the Euro-American countries and Mo- Bilateral Exchanges in an international symposium would be roccan manufactured goods could be Sports and Culture held next year on the navigator. exported to those areas tariff-free. The delegation visited the Beijing Meeting the delegation, CPAFFC Stable development of Morocco- Sports University and the Confucius Vice President Feng Zuoku expressed CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin meeting with the delegation his hope that the MCFEA would become a model for all friendship associations in Arab countries and that the relevant entities of the two countries would cooperate closely in organizing the Fifth China-Arab Friendship Con- ference for new achievements in promoting bilateral relations. Chairman Khalil said that, after MCFEA’s reorganization he called on the Trade and Industry Secretary and the Foreign Secretary who both attached great importance to strengthening Morocco-China relations. The MCFEA had also increased its contact with the Chinese Embassy in Morocco and cooperated with it in organizing the Symposium on China-Morocco Eco- nomic and Trade Relations, the China-

29 Friendly Contacts

Institute Headquarters. Professor Chi Jian, Vice President of the Univer- sity, met them and arranged a tour of the indoor track and field training ground and that of the National Women’s Gymnastics Team. Vice President Chi said that the university would soon send a delegation to Morocco and hoped it could visit the University of Hassan II Casa- blanca to explore ways to strengthen cooperation. Chairman Khalil expressed Lita Youriewa with the neighbors’ children the hope that the exchange of visits would strengthen ties and promote s. Lita Youriewa from the born in Qingdao in 1946 and went back communication between the athletes M Russian city of Perm contacted to Russia with my parents at the age of and coaches of the two countries. the Qingdao Municipal People’s 10. I don’t know where the three Chi- In the Confucius Institute Association for Friendship with Foreign nese kids in the group photo with me Headquarters, the delegation visited Countries (QMPAFFC) by phone on are now.” the Experience Museum of Chinese May 3, to inform us in Chinese with On May 5, 2013, Lita together Culture and talked with Chinese Qingdao accent that, “I’m going back with her son and daughter-in-law ar- staff overseeing the work of the to Qingdao at last.” rived in Qingdao to begin tracing her Confucius Institute in Morocco. In October 2006, Qingdao formed childhood memories. She told us that Katima Yatribi, a professor of the friendship-city ties with Perm. When a her family had an indissoluble bond Mohammed V University, said QMPAFFC delegation visited Perm in with the city. Her maternal granduncle there were two Confucius Institutes November of that year, Lita Youriewa, had worked as consul in the French in Morocco, one in his university, a Russian lady in her 60s, came to see Consulate in Qingdao. Her uncle Wlad- and the other in the University of the delegation at the hotel to begin imir George Yourieff came to Qingdao Hassan II Casablanca. turning her dream to revisit Qingdao in 1924. He later became a prominent He hoped more courses, such into reality. architect and designed many famous as taiji quan (traditional shadow Lu Jiyong, an interpreter working buildings in the city such as the Prin- boxing), etc. would be added to en- for in the QMPAFFC who accompa- cess’ House on Badaguan, the Qingdao rich the teaching content. nied the delegation on its visit, said that Aquarium, etc. At present, among the In Shanghai, the delegation when Lita learned that a QMPAFFC famous historical buildings in Qing- visited the Shanghai International delegation had come to Perm, she and dao, about 30 of them were designed Studies University to be welcomed her mother of over 90 years of age were by him. Lita’s nephew Igor Sapko is by University President Cao De- overjoyed. They warmly invited the the current mayor of Perm, which has ming. The two sides discussed how delegation to their home and showed friendship-city ties with Qingdao. to further promote exchanges and the Chinese guests postcards and pho- Coming back to Qingdao 57 years cooperation. The delegation also tos of old Qingdao and some souvenirs later, Lita was filled with deep emotion. had discussions with teachers and they had brought back. Lita could still “Qingdao is still so beautiful, but it is students of the School of Oriental sing Chinese songs and was often im- much bigger than it was before,” she Languages majoring in Arabic and mersed in her memories of Qingdao. observed. French. She told the delegation: “I was Her parents came to Qingdao

30 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 Old Russian Lady’s Deep Affection For Qingdao

Lu Ming in 1942 and worked in a French trad- In order to help Lita find her old The Song of the Chinese People’s Vol- ing company. The family was living friends and neighbors, the QMPAFFC unteers: “Valiantly and spiritedly, we on Jiayuguan Road in 1946 when she contacted the Qingdao TV Station and march across the Yalu River…” was born and moved to Qixia Road Peninsular Metropolis Daily which Lita told us that her mother, al- when she was four. Lita recalled how covered Lita’s visit to Qingdao. On though already over 90, could still she spoke Chinese better than Russian the evening of May 8, a day before her speak Chinese and still remembered the when she was little because of her Chi- departure, Lita at last met four of her days she had spent in Qingdao. She had nese nanny. Now, she still can say some childhood friends and neighbors. For taught many Chinese children, mostly colloquial words that old Qingdao na- example, Zhang Ruixue and her brother girls, to play the piano. Even now, she tives know. and sister living at No.4 Qixia Road; still misses these children and wonders When we came to the Russian they were all several years younger whether any of them have become pro- school at No.21, 1 Jinkou Road, than Lita. fessional pianists. Lita, pointing at the building in front Mr. Xiao Shenghua, 86, remem- Lita was surprised at the expan- of us, said, “I received my primary bered clearly that Lita’s mother You- sion and changes of Qingdao, in her schooling here, and this building was riewa was his teacher in those years. impression it had been very small. We also designed by my uncle. I have a He said, she was graceful in manner, took her and her family to some new warm feeling seeing so many build- warm-hearted and had helped quite scenic spots such as the Olympic Sail- ings designed by my uncle during a number of Qingdao people learn to ing Center, May Fourth Square, etc. this tour.” speak Russian. Lita and her friends to- She said, “Qingdao is very beautiful Lita said with emotion that she gether sang songs The East is Red and now, but I like the old streets better.” had become more nostalgic as she was Lita Youriewa meeting her childhood friends getting older and wanted to bring her family to Qingdao to visit the places where she had once lived. Besides retracing the places of her childhood, she hoped all the more to find her childhood friends. She recalled: “My father always said that Qingdao was my hometown and I always think so. When I lived in Qingdao, I didn’t feel at all that I was in a foreign land. At that time, many of our neighbors were Russian. We all felt that Chinese people were kind-hearted and easy to get along with.”

31 In Other Lands

Art Goes Beyond Borders

Wu Qiang

ultural exchange between China Last year, some of my paintings pends not only on economic strength C and Japan dates back to the were exhibited in Tokyo, and, over the but also on the importance attached to glorious Tang Dynasty (618-907). The years, Japanese friends have collect- cultural transmission. The modern Japa- legendary experience of Chinese monk ed some of my works. From reading nese media is well developed, good at Jian Zhen’s eastward voyage across books, watching TV and some direct reviewing itself and sparing no effort to the sea to Japan with his disciples is a and indirect contact, I had some ba- publicize Japan to the whole world. This much-told tale in the history of contacts sic knowledge about Japan. However, might be the reason why so many West- between the two countries. from the cultural perspective, Japan is erners mistake us for Japanese when we As an artist and member of the a mysterious country good at learning go abroad and consider my ink paintings Art Exchange Delegation of the China and absorbing foreign cultures, as well as being in the Japanese style. Friendship Art Exchange Association, I as protecting and inheriting the legacies As a Chinese painter, I dare not was privileged to visit Japan on the oc- from previous generations. Western art say that my works can represent the casion of the 40th anniversary of nor- historians often cite Japan as the repre- country’s 5,000-year culture, yet they malization of diplomatic ties. It was my sentative when introducing Oriental art may at least display one standpoint of first visit and to learn the life and cus- despite China’s 5,000-year history and the Chinese artists’ current exploration toms of the local people close up was a culture. and research. real experience. The influence of a country de- Art transcends borders. The work The author (R.1) and other Chinese painters demonstrating their painting skills of artists represents the progress of human civilization, embodies the concept of beauty, and brings us great fun and enjoyment. From the perspective of advancing human civilization, cultural transmission and exchanges among nations are necessary. It’s especially important for China, with its rapid economic take-off, to rebuild its image of the land of decorum where nature and people are respected and good faith is practiced, and to present to the world the splendid Chinese culture through people-to-people communication and interaction. The “China-Japan Modern Elite Calligraphy and Paintings Exhibition”

32 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 opened in Kyoto Museum of Culture on March 7. Visitors must take off their outer clothing and shoes when entering the unique Tatami-style Embracing Space Hand in Hand exhibition hall, a way to show their respect and admiration for the excel- ——Impressions on Space Camp Turkey lent works of the artists. The exhibits covered 73 Chinese and 38 Japanese artists. Although we Xu Yan didn’t speak the same language, yet the same cultural roots brought us a spiritual connection and encour- have paid a number of official visits some knowledge of space while getting aged us to learn from each other. We I to Turkey in the past few years to know each other at the SCT. shared our experiences and technique and have been greatly amazed by its It has a special building of its by comparing the way we painted. glorious history and profound cultural own, including dormitories, canteen, We undertook many field ex- heritage. I also found myself fascinated shop, activity hall, auditorium, class- plorations and made sketches during by a special Turkish institution — rooms, library, laboratories, observato- the six-day visit. From observing ur- Space Camp Turkey (SCT). ry, simulators as well as administrative, ban development and folk customs, SCT is located in Izmir, the coun- financial, liaison, medical, sanitary and we learned the country’s careful and try’s third largest city. In 2000, Mr. security departments. SCT provides as- prudent way of doing things and Kaya Tuncer, founder of the Aegean tronomy courses for Turkish people and good order everywhere; watching a Free Zone, established SCT within it. conducts international summer camps kimono show and visiting handicraft His wife joined him in initiating the using English as the teaching language. workshops, we were intoxicated in foundation named Global Friendship So far, around 125,000 students its unique folk culture; from sight- Through Space Education (GFTSE) from over 50 countries have completed seeing in Osaka and Mount Fuji, in 2002, enabling more people to gain their courses, including nearly 6,000 we saw the importance attached and protection given to the ancient ruins Students from different countries at the camp and ecological environment, and the harmonious coexistence of people with thousands of spotted deer in To- daiji Temple; and from the Kamakura habitat in high mountains, we saw the respect for the architectural culture of the aborigines. It was a fruitful visit. Here, I would like to express my gratitude to the organizer—the China Friendship Art Exchange Association—for giving me this opportunity and to our Japa- nese friends for their warm hospitality. The art exchange may have been brief, yet the Sino-Japanese friendship ensu- ing from the exchange will last long.

33 In Other Lands from 27 countries receiving full schol- Besides, the CPAFFC held an Ex- arships. hibition of Chinese Paintings and Cal- The cooperation with the CPAFFC ligraphy at SCT in July-August 2012 goes back to 2009, when SCT ex- on the occasion of the Chinese Cultural pressed through the Turkish Embassy Year in Turkey. Some of the painters in Beijing its willingness to invite 12 and calligraphers gave demonstrations student victims of the 2008 Wenchuan at SCT to much appreciation. earthquake to attend the summer camp free of charge as a token of support for Helping Hand with English restoration of the affected region. During the initial stage of organiz- The Embassy contacted us and ing students, we were not sure whether we acted immediately together with Si- the English level of Chinese partici- chuan Provincial People’s Association pants was good enough for the courses. Having a class for Friendship with Foreign Countries. Then, we found our worries not neces- In July 2009 we dispatched 12 students sary as SCT provided all participants played different roles in a simulated re- to the summer camp. Ever since, SCT with a favorable and relaxing environ- turn journey of a space shuttle with me has offered scholarships to our associa- ment for practicing and improving their as the commander. That was great fun.” tion every year and we have altogether English. “Practice makes perfect. I adjust- sent several dozen students from Chi- SCT teachers are all young and ed myself to “English mode” in a few nese provinces and cities. We also in- energetic and easily mingle with stu- days’ time and understood almost all vited the SCT delegations to visit China dents. Students are divided into differ- the teachers said in class. When need- in March 2011 and again in April this ent classes with mixed nationalities to ed, I could even interpret for others. I year, during which the two sides signed encourage their potential to adapt to felt my life in SCT very meaningful.” a MOU on cooperation. international settings. In addition, to “I was on good terms with my classmates. We took photos with each A lesson on the Milky Way avoid students developing any depen- dency, the adult team leaders of every other and played jokes during breaks. I country do not attend the daily courses. also taught them some Chinese. Then, Besides, SCT organizes activities the seeds of friendship started to grow.” like gala nights and barbecue parties “Their behavior should not be for the students to show their talents considered wrong when you understand with enthusiasm and make them aware that their national customs are differ- more deeply of the importance for all ent from ours. They also have passion countries living together in harmony. and want to be our friends, only in their own way. This tells us that we need to Student Comments know more about other cultures, then Now let’s see some comments we will have more foreign friends.” from the students on SCT: “I found a big difference. We, stu- “We have various classes such dents from such a vast country, were as the basic history of astronomy and so shy compared with those from other our favorite experience of simulators. countries. They always put up their What’s more, we made model rockets, hands to express ideas no matter in launched hot balloons, enjoyed swim- class or during a quiz. Even if they an- ming, played mini-golf and attended swered wrongly, they just laughed it off the gala party and dance night. We also and still regarded it as an honor.

34 Cultural Exchanges

“However, for us, we did not dare to speak even when we knew the answer, because we were still The Glamour of People to People afraid of making mistakes or losing face. Therefore, less Chinese students speak during class. I think we should Cultural Exchange be more confident with ourselves. We should not focus only on exams and Xi Wei dare not speak our mind in class.” “What touched me most was my birthday spent at SCT. Many students came to me that day and sang birthday songs. They watched me blowing the candles and making a wish. Our teacher gave me a piece of paper and asked all my classmates to put their signatures. I was moved so much that I cried at that time.” “They were all very kind. Dur- ing the six days with them, I learned a lot. Now I know how to become a person whom others like and how to find a real good friend.” “SCT was always filled with The delegation of the Iksan municipal government of the ROK visiting a neighborhood community in Zhenjiang our laughter and left me beautiful memories to cherish. We were all n May, Zhenjiang Municipal books and pictures on Korean history unwilling to bid farewell to each I People’s Government held a series and Iksan’s traditional culture. Zhen- other. Tears blurred our eyes, brown, of activities to celebrate the fifteenth jiang’s Vice Mayor Cao Lihong attend- blue or black.” anniversary of the establishment of ed the opening ceremony with Iksan We, as organizers, feel much friendship-city relations with Iksan, the delegates and local citizens. Madam encouraged by the appreciation of Republic of Korea (ROK). More than Cao Lihong, Mayor of Iksan Municipal our students and feel more respon- 80 Korean guests were invited to join Government Mr. Lee Han Su, Speaker sible to do more practical job for the celebration, including staff from of Iksan City Council Mr. Kim Dae Oh enhancing the mutual understanding the ROK Embassy in Beijing and the made speeches and jointly cut the rib- between all people of the younger Consulate General in Shanghai, delegates bon at the ceremony. generations in the world. Mr. Kaya from Iksan Municipal Government and Vice Mayor Cao Lihong said the Tuncer, founder of SCT, passed City Council, representatives from ROK past 15 years had witnessed an increasing away last year, but his contribu- chambers of commerce in East China, number of people participating in cultural tions to the global friendship will and major Korean media. exchanges between the two cities, strong- always be remembered by people ly boosting sustained development of the from different countries. It is also a Window of Beautiful Iksan two cities’ friendship. The opening of big honor for myself to be engaged As part of the celebration, an ex- the “Window of Iksan” at the city library in establishing cooperation between hibition — “Window of Iksan” — was would be a new channel for citizens to the CPAFFC and SCT. held in Zhenjiang Library to display learn about the ties of friendship.

35 Cultural Exchanges

Mayor Lee Han Su cited a Korean Iksan” would be an impor- proverb: “The world is totally different tant bridge connecting the from the one ten years ago” to describe two friendship cities. the great changes he felt in the dynamic Zhenjiang Library city of Zhenjiang. The Iksan delegation and Iksan Library also brought with them many books about held a seminar on their ex- Korean history and culture, together periences in library man- with photographic works reflecting Ik- agement. Mr. Ren Gang, san’s sceneries in different seasons to Curator of Zhenjiang Li- promote understanding of the ROK and brary, introduced its his- Iksan. The Mayor also expressed his tory. Established in 1933 expectation of even more cooperation as the Provincial Library of between the two cities in future. Jiangsu, it shoulders many The 90-year-old Chinese lady giving Korean friends Zhenjiang Library and Iksan Li- social responsibilities, such her papercuts of Chinese zodiac animals brary established friendship relations as preserving documents and delivering versity for the Aged. three years ago. Since then, the latter knowledge to the public. It has a col- Ms. Hu Yunxia, chairperson of the has collected about three hundred Ko- lection of over one million books and Zhenjiang Women’s Federation briefed rean books, including folk tales of Ik- documents, including 180,000 ancient about the role and function of the or- san, paintings of animals, comic books, books, and also foreign language works. ganization. The two sides discussed photo albums and historical books. The opening of the “Window their policies towards women and the These books are available in the “Win- of Iksan” further enriches the library. importance of nongovernmental groups dow of Iksan” section of the Reading Iksan Library, according to its Ad- in society. Ms. Han appreciated the Department on the second floor. The ministrative Officer Ko Min Chul, is fruitful outcome of the discussion, and comic books will attract teenagers who managed and operated by volunteers. said Iksan had enacted many advanced are interested in Korean pop culture, It organizes regular reading salons for policies for women; she was looking and language learners can improve parents and children. The two libraries forward to more exchanges in such their skills by reading books by Korean agreed to open a “Window of Zhen- fields as culture, gender equality, and authors. Alongside the “Window of jiang” in Iksan Library in October to children education. Iksan”, another exhibition was held to display Chinese books, paintings, and The delegation later visited Ying- display 124 photographic works pre- pictures. After that, the two libraries jiang Road Residential Community of senting a panorama of Iksan’s history will exchange books regularly. Jinshan Street. The Community em- and folk culture. ploys a group of female staff to provide At the photo exhibition, Mayor Colorful Community Activities multiple services for the elders, such Lee Han Su took the job of explaining In order to have a better under- as the 24/7 speed dial help system, the the interesting stories behind every pic- standing of Zhenjiang women’s work craftsman workshop, the club for elder ture, which gave the audience a vivid and life, the 14 women delegates from people who have lost their children, impression of Iksan’s scenic spots, tra- Iksan, leaders of women nongovern- free-lunch canteen, and day care room. ditions, festivals, and modern develop- mental organizations, had a meeting At the craftsman workshop, an ment. Vice Mayor Cao Lihong, while with leaders of the Zhenjiang Women’s artist made a traditional pyrographic leafing through a Korean comic book, Federation to exchange experiences. picture, a panorama of Zhenjiang’s fa- said these interesting books and pic- The women delegates, led by Han mous historic scenic spot Jinshan Hill, tures could help the younger generation Dong Yeon, chairperson of Iksan’s Ko- and gave it as a souvenir to the guests; know more of Korean culture despite rean Mother Association, also visited an old lady of 90 used a pair of scissors language barriers, and the “Window of a local community and Zhenjiang Uni- to make a series of lovely paper-cut

36 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 animals, impressing the visitors who watch the dancing performance jointly The choreographer of Iksan Danc- had their pictures with her. Staff also prepared by Iksan Dancing Troupe ing Troupe also spoke highly of the helped handicapped people rehabilitate and Zhenjiang Xijin Ferry Community Chinese traditional dances, saying the with various facilities. When the guests Troupe for the celebration of the 15th music, costumes and the dancing style arrived at the rehabilitation center, the anniversary of the establishment of were “poetic”. The music and dances mentally retarded children greeted the friendship-city ties. About a thousand transcend the boundary between the two guests who were greatly moved. people watched the show. nations, and fully proved the common The children played a fishing Iksan Dancing Troupe was estab- saying: “The treasure that belongs to a game, and everyone rejoiced when they lished in 1996 and has performed in nation is also appreciated by the world”. caught a plastic fish. The guests were many countries, participating in many Apart from giving performance, greatly impressed by the development international contests and winning many the Iksan Dancing Troupe also watched of new communities in Zhenjiang and prestigious prizes. By doing so, the Zhenjiang artists’ performance of Pe- the way of community management. Troupe presents to the world a fresh im- king Opera and Shaoxing Opera. They At Zhenjiang University for the age of the Korean traditional dances. exchanged experience and had discus- Aged, the female students performed Iksan Dancing Troupe had performed sion on dancing skills. traditional Chinese dances and musical in Zhenjiang twice before, on the occa- The Xijin Ferry Street has a history instruments for the guests, and showed sions of the International Friendship-City of about a thousand years. It was opened their multiple talents such as cooking, Conference in 2005 and the Qixi Festival to the outside world at a very early time, calligraphy, and painting. The guests (the Chinese Valentine’s Day) in 2007. and traces of Western culture and styles were impressed by what they had This year, they took “Heartbeat in can be easily found. The street repre- seen, and commented that the women Dream” as the theme and added mod- sents the essence of the city’s history in Zhenjiang lived a colorful life and ern dancing techniques to traditional and culture, and is also a stage for cul- played an important role in society. dances, giving a fresh and breathtak- tural exchanges with foreign countries. ing visual enjoyment to the audience. The Zhenjiang-Iksan Dancing Dazzling Traditional Dances The traditional Korean dances such as Performance adds a new and remark- When the lights were turned on in Fan Dance and Long Drums Dance, able episode in the cultural exchange the evening, the scenic block of Xijin together with the Chinese dances, for history of Xijin Ferry Street. Ferry Street turned into a fairyland. The example, The Beauty in Color and Fine crowds gathered at Jianyuan Square to Rain drew much applause. (Translated by Liu Wenqin) Fan Dance by Korean artists

37 Cultural Exchanges

Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe’s Performance Tour of Japan

Zhang Yaqin

o mark the 35th anniversary of the nawa, Ishikawa and Aichi, and Chinese the innovative Chinese acrobatic art T signing of the Sino-Japanese Peace Ambassador to Japan Cheng Yonghua and the tenacious spirit of the perform- and Friendship Treaty, a 50-member and Chinese consul generals in Na- ers. The acrobats through enthusiastic Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe sent by the goya, Niigata, Nagasaki, Fukuoka and performance expressed their aspiration CPAFFC undertook a performance tour Sapporo were among the audience. In for China-Japan friendship. of 44 Japanese cities from February 25 Tokyo, diplomats from embassies of Governors of various prefectures to May 31, 2013 at the invitation of the 36 countries including 19 ambassadors expressed their welcome to and fol- Min-On Concert Association of Japan watched the performance. lowed with interest the troupe’s per- (Min-On). The troupe traveled from Sap- formance in their area, while the Japa- Over 96 days, the troupe staged poro in the far north to Okinawa in nese audiences responded with great 85 performances with a total audience the south, performing to full houses enthusiasm, showing that Japan-China of about 100,000 person/times. Gover- wherever it went. The audience felt the friendship is deep-rooted in the hearts nors of 11 prefectures including Oki- show Sky Mirage fully demonstrated of the two peoples and were an inspiration for more cultural ex- Hiromasa Ikeda, Vice President of Soka Gakkai International at the ceremony of confer- ring upon Mr. Daisaku Ikeda the title of Honorary Head of the Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe changes of various forms with China in the future. Arranged by the CPAFFC and Min-On, in early May the troupe went to the tsunami-devastated area for four charity performances in Iwaki City of Fukushima Prefecture, Oo- funato City of Iwate Prefec- ture and Ishimaki City of Miyagi Prefecture. About 3,000 people watched the performances. In his welcome speech before the show, Min-On’s President Yasuhiro Ko- bayashi quoted Daisaku Ikeda’s famous saying: If

38 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 politics and economy are compared to is the fifth acrobatic troupe sent by the a ship, people-to-people communica- CPAFFC to tour Japan in cooperation tion is a sea. The ship will be stranded with the Min-On. The two sides began when caught in a storm, but as long as to exchange opinions on item selection there is understanding and communica- and program arrangement six months tion between people, the ship will be in advance of the tour. Such items as pushed forward. Lion Dance and Mice Get Married Mayors of various cities also went highlighted the unique features of Chi- to the performances and made speeches na’s Northeast; the extremely difficult extending their thanks to the Shenyang acrobatic stunts made the whole perfor- Acrobatic Troupe for its charity shows, mance thrilling and breathtaking; and and expressed deep sympathy to the humorous and cartoon elements added Chinese people suffering from the entertaining effects to the performance. Lushan earthquake that occurred on Particularly, the Lion Dance with April 20, 2013. some seven-or-eight-year-old young In Ishimaki, the city hit hardest by performers joining in and their interac- the tsunami on March 11, 2011, the per- tion with the audience greatly enhanced formance was put on in the gymnasium the attractiveness of the performance. and their wish to carry out cultural ex- that served as a refuge in the wake of Though the tour was made at a changes. the disaster. After the performance, the time when China-Japan relations faced Quite a few Japanese media cov- acrobats went down from the stage to difficulties, in the places where the ered this performance tour, noting that shake hands with the audience and say performance was given, we still felt this cultural exchange activity had goodbye to them. Many people were that Japanese audience liked Chinese linked the hearts of the two peoples deeply touched. Disaster victims who acrobatic art, and the willingness of through art, which effectively enhanced had come to watch the show said, they the Japanese public and personages of mutual trust and understanding between were greatly encouraged by performers’ various social sectors for the early im- the two peoples and spread friendship spirit of challenging the extremes, and provement of Japan-China relationship throughout Japan. expressed their gratitude to the acrobats from China’s Northeast for bringing loving care to Japan’s Northeast. To further consolidate the long- term cooperative relations between the CPAFFC and the Min-On, and to extend our gratitude to Daisaku Ikeda, founder of the Min-On, for his devo- tion to the cause of cultural exchanges between the two countries over the years, on April 1, a ceremony was held to confer upon him the title of honorary head of the Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe. Hiromasa Ikeda, Vice Presi- dent of Soka Gakkai International, was present at the ceremony. The Shenyang Acrobatic Troupe

39 Cultural Exchanges

Break Cultural Barriers with Music

——Notes on China-Germany Friendship Night Concert

Wang Wei

t was early summer in Beijing I and the sun spread its scorching rays unsparingly. On May 14, a dozen workers, bathed in sweat, were bustling about the historic, 110-year- old compound of the CPAFFC. The soundman, complaining about the weather, took off his coat to provide shade for his mixing console. A stage was being erected, lighting facilities installed, wires connected, musical instruments put in place... The empty square in front of the Main Building gradually turned into an open-air theater as each task was completed. The two Bronze Lions on each side Frankfurt Colors Quartet’s open-air performance in Beijing of the stage seemed to watch all this frantic activity with bemused curiosity. the money. In the midst of music and The slim figure of Angela Fron- The musicians sought shelter laughter, the differences of nationality, tera, a percussionist of Brazilian de- from the heat in the shadow of the race, culture and language seemed to scent, was belied by her explosive pow- Main Building while waiting for the disappear. er. To her, music is everything and ev- final sound check. Though my col- The band is from Frankfurt, Ger- erything is music. That afternoon, she leagues and I had only met them a few many, but it is not a German band in had visited the canteen of the CPAFFC days earlier, we had already become the common sense. In fact, the mem- to beat dozens of pots and pans before good friends. While calculating the bers of the Frankfurt Colors Quartet finally choosing the one with which she time needed for this sound check, we come from different countries. Vassily would play a tune at the evening’s con- exchanged good-humored jokes. Duck, the humorous accordionist, cert after filling it with water. Vassily, sitting on the steps of the comes from the vast Siberia region of Deniz Koseoglu, a young Turkish Main Building, started to play his ac- Russia. Duck is a typical German fam- saz player, can produce reverberating cordion. Pretending we were passersby, ily name, however. It turned out that music with religious hues as well as we threw coins into his accordion case. his ancestors had moved to Siberia with more worldly songs about people. Mat- Vassily said he would buy a Rolex with Catherine the Great. thias Frey, the pianist and producer, is

40 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 the only German in the band. He pos- punctuated the darkness, the concert sesses all the virtues of the German began. It was a performance of world race – being precise, having a strong music. The music, sometimes soft and thirst for knowledge and never impos- melodic and sometimes passionate and ing his opinions on others. He has a exciting; by adopting the musical ex- magnetic character. pression of different nationalities, the Coming to China with the band band seeks to show the cultural diver- was an important person Peter Sch- sity of Frankfurt. neckmann. Those in China engaged The music seemed to carry us to in people-to-people exchanges be- the flourishing financial city of Frank- tween China and Germany will sure- furt, to the exotic Bosporus, to the en- ly clap their hands and say: “Hey, I chanting Amazon River and the vast know him!”. He is an old friend of the Siberian forests. But the piece that ex- CPAFFC. As early as 1986, in coopera- cited the Chinese audience most was tion with the CPAFFC, he introduced Dragon Dance. When the familiar mel- Percussionist Angela Frontera making music with a basin the famous Rock band BAP that be- ody rose, the first reaction from the au- came the first German band of its type dience was surprise, followed by loud 1,000 concerts, is a big name in China. to tour China. cheers and warm applause. What is China like? What is Ger- Peter Schneckmann’s feelings for This Chinese folk music inter- many like? When people are asked this China can hardly be expressed with preted by foreign musicians became they may not be able to give a satisfac- words. He has employed every social so different in their hands and gave the tory answer on the spot. But when all tool to maintain contact with his Chi- audience a warm feeling. Those who this melts into music, the answer will nese friends—blog, micro-blog, we- did not understand the term “world appear on their happy faces, warm ap- chat, QQ, etc.—and the words follow- music” began to swing with the rhythm plause and smiling eyes. Cultural bar- ing his signature always are: My Chi- and beat time with their hands and riers seem to be the thickest wall be- nese friends are my second home. feet. They were moved by the fact that tween different countries and nations. As night fell and colored lights Western musicians recognized Chi- But when music is heard, the wall pre- Accordionist Vassily Duck nese music and by the concert’s perfect venting people from understanding and blending of the Chinese and Western forging friendship with each other will music. gradually disintegrate. Bursts of applause and cheers fol- Just as CPAFFC Vice President lowed the last note of the concert. In Li Jianping said in his speech at the response, the Band played an impromp- concert: “The world wants peace, na- tu encore. Udo Hoffmann, a German tions want development and people concert planner in Beijing, said, “It was want happiness. All this is built on the really embarrassed that I had cried, you basis of friendship and trust. People- know. I was touched by the music and to-people friendship can be achieved in the atmosphere. The CPAFFC com- various ways and music is a refined and pound is so beautiful that it is really the pleasant way. Musicians, while bring- best place for an open-air concert.” ing us the enjoyment of beauty, have I looked at Udo who was very ex- sowed the seeds of friendship and trust. cited and said to him. “Your tears are And this is reason for the CPAFFC to the highest praise for the concert.” Udo host this China-Germany Friendship Hoffmann, who has masterminded over Night Concert.”

41 Cultural Exchanges

Music Connects People’s Hearts ——On 20 Years of Cooperation Between CPAFFC and Villa Musica Foundation of Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany

Gan Qianyi

n 1993, introduced by Karl- Exchange Programs Between Chinese erhu performer Zhou Yaokun, sheng I Heinz Gass, a German friend of and German Young Musicians performer Cao Jianguo, pipa performer the CPAFFC and a recipient of its Exchanges of visits between Yang Jing and huqin performer Shen title of Friendship Ambassador, the young musicians are the main form of Cheng have taken part in the activities. Villa Musica Foundation (VMF) cooperation. Every year, a young musi- The VMF has also organized a of Rheinland-Pfalz in Germany cians group is sent by one of the two corresponding number of chamber mu- established working contact with the organizations on a 15-day performance sic groups to visit China. Among the Cultural Exchange Department of the tour of the other country. Up till now, performers were famous cellists Alex- CPAFFC. the CPAFFC has sent 13 Chinese music ander Hulshoff and Wen-Sinn Yang; In September of the same year, groups from professional institutes. Adam Markowski, violinist and laureate the CPAFFC sent a folk music group These have included the China award winner at many concerts in Ger- consisting of musicians from the China National Orchestra, China Broadcasting many; Endri Nini, pianist who had won National Orchestra to Iceland on a per- Chinese Orchestra, China Conserva- the special prize at the Concours Inter- formance tour, and, on the way back, it tory, Chinese People’s Liberation Army national de Piano Ile de France in Paris; visited the foundation’s headquarters to Academy of Art, and the Sichuan Con- Anna Szulc-Kapala, viola player who launch 20 years of friendly cooperation servatory of Music. Well-known musi- won first prize at the Joseph Joachim between the two organizations. cians such as vocalist Li Shuangjiang, Chamber Music Competition in Weimar.

CPAFFC Vice President Jing Dunquan with Walter Schumacher, State Secretary and Vice Minister of the Cultural Department of Rheinland-Pfalz and the German musicians group at the celebration marking 20 years of cooperation

42 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

Over the past 20 years, the Ger- State Secretary and Vice Minister of man musicians have performed in more the Cultural Department of Rheinland- than 20 Chinese cities including Bei- Pfalz and President of the Board of the jing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, VMF, visited China this year to take Qingdao, Hangzhou, Guilin and Xia- part in the celebration activities. The men. Chinese musicians, helped by the musicians gave concerts in Beijing, VMF, have been able to travel to coun- Chengdu and Xiamen. tries like Luxembourg and Poland to give performances. Enhance Understanding and Deepen Friendship Photo Exhibition in Cooperation Trust between the two organiza- The frequent music and art ex- tions has been built through years of changes have enhanced friendly com- friendly cooperation. The frequent ex- munications between the staff and changes have enabled them to learn further strengthened the mutual trust more about each other’s countries and between the two organizations. explore new cooperative ways. Mean- The Chinese folk music group from With the efforts made by the VMF, while, more young Chinese artists have Sichuan Conservatory of Music Peter Schule, Landtagvizeprasident of been able to go abroad, creating impe- visiting Germany in 2012 Rheinland-Pfalz, headed a 16-member tus for the inheritance and development two or three decades. brass band to visit China in 2000, and of Chinese music. Their experiences in China will State Secretary Roland Hartel led a The young musicians sent by the help them understand Chinese music string quartet to China in 2002. These VMF come from different countries of and Chinese culture. And through mu- visits laid a foundation for the coopera- the world. They are winners of major sic, the people of the two countries will tion between the CPAFFC and the Gov- international competitions of classical gain a deeper understanding of each ernment of the State of Rheinland-Pfalz. music and will play an important role other’s cultures, thus helping enhance From October 16 to November in international classical music world mutual understanding and trust, and 30, 2005, a photo exhibition on the and produce great impact in the next promote friendship between them. “World Cultural Heritage — The Up- The String Sextet sent by VMF touring China in 2009 per Middle Rhine Valley of Germany”, co-sponsored by the CPAFFC and the Rheinland-Pfalz State Government was held at 12 different venues in Beijing, Qingdao, Fuzhou, Xiamen, Nanchang, Lijiang, Chengdu, Changsha, Xi’an and Shanghai.

20th Anniversary of Cooperation Marked To mark 20 years of cooperation between the CPAFFC and the VMF and of the exchange program between the Chinese and German young musicians, a group of German musicians headed by Mr. Walter Schumacher,

43 Cultural Exchanges

Museum of Old Historical Photos of Chengdu Opens in Dayi County

Rong You

he Museum of Old Historical Photos T of Chengdu opened in Dayi County, Chengdu at a ceremony on June 9. It houses the exhibition of old photos taken by Canadians living and working in Sichuan in the last century. The more than 1,000 photos on display show the life and work of the Canadians, the life and customs of local people, and the natural landscape. The activity was jointly sponsored by the Sichuan Provincial People’s Associa- tion for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the Chengdu Municipal People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Dayi County Government, the Canadian Embassy in China and the Canadian Consulate General in Canadian friends accorded a warm welcome on their home visit in Chongqing with the support of the CPAFFC. Dayi County, Sichuan Sarah Taylor, minister of the Canadian In the Museum of Old Historical Photos of Chengdu Embassy, and a 29-member Canadian delegation traveled to Sichuan specially to participate in the activity. Most of the delegation members were the children and grandchildren of Canadian missionaries, who grew up in Chengdu and attended the Canadian School (CS). Thus, they called themselves “CS children”. It was a real homecoming for them. Their parents or grandparents had come to Chengdu 100 years ago, opening schools and setting up hospitals. The West China Union University they set up has now become the West China Center of Medical Sci- ences of Sichuan University where China’s modern stomatology techniques were developed.

44 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

Wan-go Weng — Propagator of Chinese Culture

Liu Gengyin

an-go Weng is a well-known Palace Museum to Western countries, W Chinese-American social and also a great contribution made by activist. His original ancestral home is Weng to Sino-Western cultural ex- Changshu, Jiangsu Province. He went changes. to the United States in 1938 to study The Palace Museum: Peking— electrical engineering. After graduation, Treasures of the Forbidden City con- he taught in universities in the United sists of 600-plus illustrations with Eng- States. Later, he shifted his interest lish explanations of carefully selected to studying and propagating Chinese articles among the millions of cultural traditional culture, becoming a pioneer relics collected by the Palace Museum of disseminating Chinese traditional falling into eight categories: architec- culture not only in the United States ture of the Forbidden City, ceramics, but throughout the West. bronzes, paintings and calligraphy, Wan-go Weng is a descendant of sculptures, jade carving, minor arts and Weng Tong-he, who tutored Emperor was elected chairman of the influential gold and gems. The book took three Tongzhi and Emperor Guangxu. He China Institute in America, a non-profit years to complete and was printed in It- inherited many of Weng Tong-he’s col- organization, founded by Hu Shi and aly and published in the United States. lections, in particular calligraphy and other prominent Chinese cultural celeb- In September 1984, again through paintings by celebrities of past ages. rities in the United States in 1926 with a proposal by Weng, the commemora- The head of the China Guardian Auc- the aim of promoting cultural and edu- tion of the 200th anniversary of trade tion House once commented: “Among cational exchanges. between China and the United States the overseas collectors we know of, After assuming chairmanship of co-sponsored by the CPAFFC and the Wan-go Weng is the only one who has the institute, Weng has laid more stress China Institute in America was held in such wide collection of [Chinese] cal- on introducing Chinese traditional cul- Beijing. This activity was of far reach- ligraphy and paintings, both in quality ture to the American people. ing significance. and heritage significance that cannot be In 1982, at his proposal and with In 1784, the newly independent replaced by any other collectors.” Be- the assistance of the Palace Museum United States of America, affected by the cause of this, he has close contacts with in Beijing, the English version of the blockade and embargo imposed by Brit- eminent Chinese experts engaged in book The Palace Museum: Peking — ain and France, sought to ease the eco- identification of cultural relics such as Treasures of the Forbidden City co- nomic crisis by opening trade with China. Xu Bangda, Yang Boda and Xie Zhiliu, authored by Wan-go Weng and Yang To express its respect to China, the mer- who are the honored guests at Weng’s Boda, Deputy Curator of the Palace chant vessel it sent was named Empress country villa designed by himself in the Museum, was published. This is the of China and it left New York harbor on suburbs of New York. first and only book that gives a detailed February 22, birthday of the first Ameri- In the early 1980s, Wan-go Weng introduction about the treasures of the can President George Washington.

45 In Other Lands

Pakistanis Eager to Welcome Premier Li Keqiang

Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani (Pakistan)

“We the Pakistani Nation, are the efforts of PCFA-Khyber Chap- ship Association and its chapters spe- very much eager to welcome Chinese ter for further strengthening the cially Khyber Chapter, the Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on his first visit friendly relations between Pakistan People’s Association for Friendship to Pakistan after taking over the Pre- and China in all fields of daily life with Foreign Countries and its lo- miership of the People’s Republic of and mentioned that with the visit of cal associations specially those in China whom we are enjoying deep the Chinese Premier, our relation- Shanghai, Xinjiang, Urumqi and rooted and exemplary friendship for ship would be further enhanced. Kashgar, Urdu Services of China all seasons,” This was stated by Mr. Mr. Syed Ali Nawaz Gilani men- Radio International, through which Arif Nizami, Federal Minister for In- tioned that Chinese Premier’s forth- our relationship turned into friend- formation, Broadcasting and Postal coming visit would also play a vital ship and people to people interaction. Services of Pakistan, while speak- role in strengthening and developing The leader of the visiting Chinese ing at a luncheon hosted by Syed Ali the Pak-China Friendship and fruits Trade Delegation Mr. Tang Hailong Nawaz Gilani, Secretary-General of the of this friendship would bring eco- thanked PCFA-Khyber Chapter for the Pakistan-China Friendship Association nomic prosperity in Pakistan. He hospitality it accorded and said that (PCFA)-Khyber Chapter in honor of a also mentioned about the important being an old friend of China, PCFA- visiting Chinese Trade Delegation from role of various Chinese and Pakistani Khyber Chapter always worked for the Kashgar in Islamabad on May 21. non-governmental organizations, noble cause of further strengthening the Mr. Arif Nizami appreciated such as All Pakistan-China Friend- China-Pakistan relationship.

After a six-month voyage, the ves- to New York in May 1785. The Chinese China for the last time, to collect mate- sel, fully laden with American goods products were well received by the rials for the Biography of Chen Hong- such as animal skin, ginseng, pepper, American people. The vessel’s voyage shou, a renowned painter in the Ming etc., arrived in Guangzhou in August to China gained both fame and wealth. Dynasty, that he was writing. Helped 1784. Captain John Green wrote in his Robert Morris, a fiscal official who had by Shi Shuqing, a famous expert on diary: The Empress of China has glori- made the suggestion, was promoted as identification of cultural relics, Weng ously hoisted the first American flag Secretary of the Treasury and in charge photographed Chen Hongshou’s paint- that has never been raised or seen by of trade with China. ings collected by the Palace Museum. anyone in this sea area. That day is Au- This voyage served as a prelude to At that time, he wanted to meet his gust 28, 1784. friendly contacts between the Chinese old friend Han Xu, the then CPAFFC The Americans sold all their cargo and American people. President. As Han was ill in hospital, in Guangzhou and bought Chinese ce- In Spring 1994, Wan-go Weng however, he asked his wife Ge Qiyun ramics, tea and silk there and returned who was then over 70, returned to and me to meet Weng on his behalf.

46 Friendship Activities

Departure Ceremony for Chinese International Friendship Volunteers Held in Beijing

An Xin

he CPAFFC launched the “Program mation for future bilateral investment and Zhongxie HR respectively pre- T of Chinese International Friendship and economic cooperation programs. sented to the Fiji-China Friendship Volunteers” in 2012. On July 18 this At the invitation of the Guate- Association and the Guatemala-China year, it joined with the Program’s mala-China Friendship Association Friendship Association a calligraphic organizer, Zhongxie Human Resource (GCFA), Li Yating and Liang Jingfeng, scroll with the words: “Make friends Consulting Center (Zhongxie HR), to both teachers, would go to Guatemala extensively in the world through inter- hold a departure ceremony for the first to teach Chinese for a year to conduct national volunteer services” to be car- batch of volunteers in the Peace Palace Chinese language classes in four edu- ried by the volunteers. of the CPAFFC. Present were Xie Yuan, cational institutes. Xie hoped their ser- The CPAFFC is committed to Vice President of the CPAFFC, Guo vice would promote more educational promoting friendship, peace, coopera- Quansheng, Director of the Zhongxie and cultural exchanges. tion and development. The program of HR, and over 50 representatives In order to ensure the quality of sending volunteers overseas is an im- from Hanban/ Confucius Institute teaching and publicize Chinese culture, portant step in exploring new ways of Headquarters as well as the media. the CPAFFC donated Chinese language further expanding areas of cooperation Xie Yuan announced the first textbooks worth 50,000 RMB to the and injecting fresh vitality into friend- group of volunteers would set out GCFA. ship between China and foreign coun- for Fiji and Guatemala. He said the At the ceremony, the CPAFFC tries. CPAFFC had launched the program for The volunteers showing the calligraphic works to be given to the Fiji-China better utilization of China’s people-to- Friendship Association and the Guatemala-China Friendship Association people diplomatic resources to publicize the country’s peaceful development concepts and help other countries achieve social progress. He wished the volunteers every success and hoped they would take with them the Chinese people’s friendship and best wishes and make many friends so that more people would know about China and want to be friendly with it, and also come to like Chinese culture. Volunteers Wang Rui and Song Yuchen would work in Fiji for three months, making preparations for the convening of the China-Fiji symposium on economy and trade to be held there early next year and help gather infor-

47 Forums

Second Sino-Indian University Students Forum Held

Zhang Ran

he Second Sino-Indian University Fudan University, Nanjing University CSAS, was held at Shou Ren Inter- T Students Forum, jointly sponsored and Nankai University, and 35 Indian national Conference Center of Peking by the CPAFFC, the China-India delegates from eight Indian universities University. Among those present were Friendship Association, the Center for such as the University of Delhi, Jawa- Feng Zuoku, Vice President of the South Asian Studies (CSAS) of Peking harlal Nehru University, Banaras Hindu CPAFFC, Li Yansong, Vice President University and the Charhar Institute, University and Visva-Bharati Univer- of Peking University, Han Fangming, was held in Beijing from April 25 to 28. sity, as well as the London School of Vice Chairman of the Foreign Affairs It provided students with a plat- Economics, took part. Committee of the National Committee form for communication and an oppor- With the theme of “Writing the of the Chinese People’s Political Con- tunity for exchanging ideas and gaining Future of Chindia: Our Opportunities sultative Conference, Vinayak Chavan, inspiration, enhanced friendship and and Challenges”, participants had in- First Secretary of the Indian Embassy, broadened areas of contact between the depth discussions on cultural exchang- and Liu Shusen, Vice Dean of the two countries for long-term coopera- es, economic contacts and diplomatic School of Foreign Languages of Peking tion and development. relations, deepening their mutual un- University. Forty-six student representatives derstanding and trust. In his address, CPAFFC Vice from 10 Chinese universities, including The opening ceremony, presided President Feng Zuoku spoke highly Peking University, Tsinghua University, over by Professor Jiang Jingkui of the of the traditional friendship between Participants of the Second Sino-Indian University Students Forum

48 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013

China and India and encouraged young people of the two countries to fully play their bridging role as bilateral relations deepened. Feng reviewed the achievements of the first forum, affirm- ing its important role in promoting people-to-people contacts, especially youth exchanges. Vice President Li Yansong, recalling the personages of insight in past China-India friendly contacts, said that due to their concerted efforts, the two A delegate making a presentation at Forum’s Cultural Committee great civilizations of the world, had supplied each other’s needs and com- great interest in each other’s cultures influence of globalization on local life plemented each other, building state-to- and activities such as forums gave them patterns in China and India”, “Chal- state relations of mutual trust and com- valuable opportunities for face-to-face lenges and opportunities facing China mon prosperity. and heart-to-heart exchanges in an open and India: under the international fi- First Secretary Vinayak Chavan atmosphere. nancial crisis”, “Comparison between expressed his full recognition of the The forum had three committees China and India from the aspect of eco- positive role of the forum as a platform covering Culture, Economy and Diplo- nomic development patterns”, “Military for student exchanges in promoting macy. The delegates were divided into growth and its influence on Sino-Indian friendship. He urged the students to 15 groups, five groups under each com- relations” and “Media influence on deepen their knowledge of the present mittee, for free discussion according to Sino-Indian relations”. bilateral relations while reviewing the their cultural background and the thesis The heated debates, efficient co- history and make good use of the fo- they had submitted. They exchanged operation, excellent presentation of the rum for further cooperation. views on such topics as “Images of results of the discussions and the pro- Vice Dean Liu Shusen said the women in culture: a comparative dis- found friendship engendered ensured Department of Indian Language and cussion between China and India”, “The the forum’s success. Literature, an important component of The Chinese and Indian students at a get-together the School of Foreign Languages of Peking University, was active in con- ducting friendly exchanges between China and India while carrying forward its fine academic traditions, combining academic studies, personnel training and international cooperation. Professor Jiang Jingkui said youth exchanges were an important part of State relations, and talked about his study tour of India in January 2013 at the head of a 10-member delegation of Peking University graduate students of Indian language and literature. Univer- sity students of the two countries had

49 Forums

Meaning of Friendship ——Person-to-Person & People-to-People

Billy Lee (The United States)

aving been appointed Membership Having immigrated to the U.S. from ronment, and Innovation - too impor- HDirector of the USCPFA-South China at age 15, Cross-cultural Rela- tant to leave it to CHANCE and HAP- Bay Chapter last March (2012), I began tionship and Friendship is naturally PENSTANCE ! to ask myself more seriously “Why the most relevant to me. I started to search for definitions need of Friendship and Friends, What From childhood days in China, I of Friends and Friendship. Webster dic- is really the meaning of Friendship — was taught by my parents: Dzai Jia Kao tionary offered the following; A Friend: Person to Person and People to People? Fu Mo, Tsu Wai Kao Pon Yu – At home 1) One attached by Affection and or Es- What sparks Friendship? What nurtures you rely on your Parents. Away, you teem, 2) One not hostile, 3) a favored Friendship? What are the causes for Rely on Friends. I have discovered that person. Oxford dictionary on Friend- Lack of Interest, Irritations or Failures?” it is not just for practical considerations ship: Relationship between Friends. I have spent time to do some read- but more importantly for MEANING These definitions are almost too obvi- ing and googling on this subject and of in LIFE. I now believe that TRUE ous and not especially enlightening. course reflect on my own life the many FRIENDSHIP should be our STRIVE, What I read about True Friend- different relationships with people. as important as Love, Education, Envi- ship was more telling! True Friends: Are there for you no matter what / Don’t The Entire Wall at the International Children’s Mural Painting Park of the lie to you / Keep their promises / Don’t China National Children’s Center in 2009 stick you from the back /Kind and Car- ing towards you / Enjoyable being together / Accept each other as is / Loyal and Faithful / Someone you trust and willing to share your inner feelings with. A few HUMOROUS ones were: Friends you actually call up to do stuff with / Can borrow $5 and not to have to pay back / Wow! Okay to fart in front of. And yes on Different types of Friends: Sincere Friends — look you in the eyes / Listening Friends — quietly attentive / Big Mouth Friends — talking inces- santly about everybody and everything / Wise Friends — know when to keep qui- et or move away for a moment / Annual Friends — only connect once every year / Interest seeking Friends — always ask-

50 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 ing for something / Magnet Friends — ship efforts can bring you along everywhere / Suspicious definitely pro- Friends — always worrying about being mote more Per- cheated / Neurotic Friends — asks 500 son to Person re- times if you are still friends / Daydream lationships, and Friends — always happily floating in air in reverse the lat- / Virtual or Cyber Friends — so close ter can validate yet untouchable / Banker Friends — al- and reinforce the ways willing to bail you out when you former idea. have financial needs / Tight-fist Friends I learned — opposite of the above / Exclusive that President Friends — Don’t want you to have other Dwight D Eisen- friends / Popular Friends — too busy to hower initiated engage you much of the time / Protec- People to People tive Friends — protect you physically International Gu Xiulian, Vice President of the All-China Women’s Fed- and your good reputation / Pessimistic (PTPI) with the eration, and Sarah Randt, wife of US Ambassador, at 2000’s Friends — Can some times make you purpose to en- awards program — Chinese Children’s Art on the Environment feel depressed / Comfortable Friends — hance international understanding and by suspicious cynics. Indeed, the world come to your house, lie on your sofa, friendship through education, culture, is getting more and more connected. put feet on the coffee table, turn on the and humanitarian activities by involv- Countries and people are getting more TV, and dose to sleep / Straightly Honest ing the exchange of ideas and experi- and more inter-dependent. I may be na- Friends — will sometimes yell at you, ences directly among peoples of differ- ive, but I strongly believe in Eisenhow- “For God’s sake, Billy! Use your head!” ent countries and diverse cultures. Tol- er’s non-sibi (not for self) approach. / Imposing Friend — You must think erance and mutual understanding were Once our focus is placed on negative and do what he thinks is Right and what its central themes. A non-government thinking, there will be no end to Tic for he wants you to do. Yes, I have all these and non-profit organization, respect- Tac, then Tac for Tic. etc. etc. There different types of Friends! It’s a Rich ing universal values and aspirations, will never be any long-term satisfactory World I live in! enabling international youth to value solutions for World Peace subsequently. Most of us believe that we know long-term friendship and understand- Building Relationship with Peo- about Friends and Friendship on a Per- ing, believing that individuals can often ple from Different Cultures, an article son to Person level. International and be more effective than governments by Marya Axner published in Kansas Cross-cultural, People to People, rela- in promoting human relationships and University’s The Community Tool Box, tionships puzzled me a bit. Is it about world peace, advocating more tolerance offered some valuable input I found two groups of people from different and accepting of differences, trusting thru Googling. “We must come to- countries with different cultural back- people’s basic goodness and intelli- gether and solve problems that we have grounds wanting to better understand gence, it strives for Peace thru Friend- in common. Trusting Relationships are each other and befriend one another? ship, Understanding, and Bonding. the glue that hold people together as It is a wonderful concept, but is there Many similar organizations were they surely need each other’s support. actual emotional connections that can formed subsequently like Public Diplo- Building Relationships with people be deeply felt between groups of peo- macy etc. It is most unfortunate that the from different cultures is key to achiev- ple and result in True Bonding? I have word Diplomacy has been given a self- ing most significant goals. To become given this some thought and from my serving connotation today. The word aware of one’s own culture is a first limited experience I can at least feel Soft Power for example has also started step in learning about other people’s certain that People to People’s Friend- to ignite more fear in ordinary people culture,” so stated the author. Why ex-

51 Forums amine your own identities and culture? Friendship by Christine Leefeldt & Er- or perfect willingness to lead or fol- Learn what influenced your own views nest Callenbach — published as early low in Cooperation. The most powerful on others and learn how others view as 1979. My Architectural Profes- and most needed ingredient is ATTEN- you in reverse. How to build relation- sion background makes me especially TIVENESS, and SYMPATHY could be ships with people from other cultures? interested in the Art of Creating, the just your Wordless Presence, a Quick Realize the difference between learning smart Methodologies, and the magic Hug or Pat on the Back, or an Under- about others from indeed building rela- Results. The research covered many standing Compassionate look. tionships. Several important steps sug- intimate life stories, and it stressed that The last three chapters inspired gested were: Make a conscious deci- Friendship is indeed a crucial factor in me most: Old Friends and New, Cross- sion to establish friendship with people people’s Emotional Health and Hap- ing the Barriers, and Creative Friend- from other cultures. Put yourself into piness. One chapter on Friendship and ship. Old friends appreciate your situations where you can meet them. Power was not totally convincing to strength and accept your weaknesses. Restrain your biases about those who me, however. It suggested that mixing New Friends introduce new stimuli and are different. Ask them to tell you their profession or business with friendship, wider perspectives. Crossing the Bar- cultures and histories. Listen to their like Employer-Employee and Teacher- riers (Age, Gender, Social-Economic, stories and the way their stories are Student, is unwise because they are Educational, Political, and Religious,) told. Notice differences in communica- inherently divisive. I find that among require open-mindedness, tolerance, tion styles and value emphasis. Identify my best friends in life are my earlier and flexibility, Globalization makes it their positive aspects first. Learn how employees, employers, students and/or even more urgent today. How to be to be their ally. In summary, the article teachers. I think the issue is not posi- creative in maintaining old friends, new emphasized that Friendship is our con- tions or status but rather attitudes and friends, provincial or foreign friends is nection to each other and meaning in behaviors. But of course the authors definitely an Art. Creating moments of life. Caring for each other brings us were saying that many of us do get car- shared joy and pleasure with impact; together and motivates us to establish ried away by Power and Prestige, thus offering sympathy, comfort, or material coalitions to solve problems affecting sometimes forget about Mutual Respect help; giving as well as receiving to and us all together. and Caring. from each other etc. are all Friendship- One interesting book I discovered In the chapter, Resolving Con- making skills. But we need to improve from the local library was The Art of flicts in Friendship, I learned about our Friendship-making skills in Intel- Timing and lectual as well as Emotional spheres The author with Ms. Su Ling, Director of Foreign Liaison at China National Children’s Center Discreetness, with Honesty and Sensitivity. We know Open self- it’s more blessed to Give than to Re- revelations vs ceive always, but both Gratification Need of pri- (from giving) and Feeling Grateful vacy by cer- (from receiving) provide indescribable tain people, Joy and Happiness. Blunt hon- One aspect most important in esty vs Kind Creative Friendship urged us to be Pro- Explanations, active in Cultivating Friendship. The Right and challenge however still lies often with Wrong vs our lack of Trust due to lack of inter- some Com- acting experience and the Fears pro- promise but moted by expert Cynics and by people just and fair. earnestly but exclusively focusing on Equal status security threats. The author’s conclud-

52 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 ing statement was, “We owe it to our- inaugurate an International Children’s Professor Rudy Tanzi was introducing selves and to our society to combat Mural Painting Park in their beautiful his SUPER-BRAIN THEORY to the this Negativism about Human Condi- Beijing Campus. The Art is always re- vast TV audience. His main point was tions. Friendship cannot exist without lated to Environmental Concerns, and that each one of us should and in fact Trust. Vital interchanges of Friendship the Annual Festival always involves has the ability to control our own Brain can provide us with networks of se- children from different countries. The instead of letting it control us emotion- cure, enlivening, resilient relationships, immediate effect on all involved — ally and physically. A person can at and mobilize our Human Potential for children as well as adults — is vali- will lead the brain to focus on happy Warmth, Concern, and Mutual Support, dated by their apparent joy and en- positive issues, conditions, or ideas and without which we cannot thrive. ” thusiasm. The long-term effects may practice it repeatedly. The brain subse- From my own life experience, I actually be more meaningful and more quently produces chemical effects that have learned not to judge people too remarkable. The celebrations also in- can help the person reduce anxiety and quickly, not to stereotype people based volve government leaders representing feel healthy and optimistic thus more on limited or out-of-date information, the children’s countries. We hope that capable in engaging others. Yes we are avoid uncalled-for criticisms or de- people’s intrinsic needs, feelings and better persons when we are not under meaning comments, stop proving you priorities will ultimately affect state stress. Why not try this “Think kind are superior by snide and snotty jokes and international policies. and Be kind, Feel good and Be good” which are not really humorous to oth- To combat CYNICISM, FEAR, practice, and let Friendship THRIVE ers. Admit your own mistakes and and DISTRUST, we must build TRUST for a BETTER WORLD ? ! apologize for having caused hurt or and ENGAGEMENT with diligence, (April 2013) harmed other’s self esteem. Be a True determination, creativity, and commit- Friend to others without demanding ment. A most encouraging message The author, an 80 year-old retired archi- equal reciprocation. Understand other’s is indeed what I heard from watching tect, is a founding director of The 1990 aspirations and needs. Do whatever KQED’s special presentation by a Har- Institute and membership director of you can to help. Appreciate, Enjoy, and vard Professor in Neuro-Psychology. USCPFA-South Bay. Promote Trust. Allison Lee’s ABC Team from San Francisco teaching English in an elemen- I am personally 100% committed tary school in Jiangsu Province to the idea of building and promoting Cross-culture Friendship — Person to Person and People to People. Hoping to connect the children from U.S. and China twelve years ago, for example, I initiated the C2C, C2C, (Children to Children, Connecting 2 Countries) Magic Moments Exchanges, via The 1990 Institute — in collaboration with All China Women’s Federation, China National Children’s Center, and China’s Environmental Protection Ministry. Promoting Cross-cultural Friendship among Children, and promoting Art simultaneously with En- vironment, we ultimately persuaded China National Children’s Center to

53 Foreign Friends' View on China

The Best Place for the Belle

Shihabur Rahman (Bangladesh)

hen I first came to Beijing in ing the males behind in many sectors. cal labour. W March 2011 to work for China I find most of the shops here are run As the women started to engage Radio International, the state-run multi- by women and department store staff in hard work, the government began to language radio station, I lacked enough members are dominated by them. provide them with access to education knowledge about the present condition Most of the credit for the suc- and politics in exchange, apart from of the women in China. The perception cess goes to the government, which has monetary compensation. Now the Chi- that I had about the women in the made great efforts to achieve a high nese women receive the same amount world’s most populous country were level of economic status and liberty of money as the men do for the same largely dominated by what I, like many for the women. Thanks to the efforts, amount of work. According to govern- other Bangladeshis, read in books now officially Chinese women account ment version, the percentage of girls at- during our young age. The books were for over 44 percent of the country’s tending school already neared hundred mostly based on situation prevailing workforce. It is surprising to many percent three years back from now, many years back and obviously devoid how China has attained such women compared to below 20 percent before of the condition of today’s China. advancement and male-female equality the foundation of the People’s Republic The books focused more on imperial- at workplace despite having the history (China Daily’s report published on No- era traditions, which bar the women where it was unimaginable for a Chi- vember 5, 2009). from working outside their houses and nese woman to hold any official posi- Safety and security of the women having official positions, than on the tions only six decades back. in China is another aspect that deserves progress that the country has attained Well, let us have a look on the great acclaim. It is rarely heard that any in protection and promotion of women history to know how it has been pos- woman has been violated or abused rights after the establishment of the sible. The history of new China, that is anywhere in the country, which has People’s Republic of China in 1949. the People’s Republic of China, says an over 1.344 billion population, 22.4 But my perception started to that the women started to be involved percent of the world’s total. How much change fast from the very first day of in nation-building efforts — initially safety and security the Chinese women my coming to China. To my utter sur- through manual labour for farming are enjoying is well evident through prise, I saw that male journalists at our and for urban industrialisation — from their scare-free movement across Bei- Bengali department of the radio station the beginning of Chairman Mao Ze- jing and elsewhere in the country. As were distinctively outnumbered by fe- dong’s leadership in 1949. The leader, a subway commuter, I see how rush males. I later discovered that same was who made his famous observation of passengers the metro experienced the case in almost each of the over 60 that “women hold up half the sky” to every day, particularly just before the language departments. And I continue project importance of the females, is office time in the morning and after to discover through my visits to shops, considered by many the father of Chi- the offices and business establishment department stores, banks, restaurants nese feminism. At the beginning of his start closing in the afternoon. Every and many other establishments that the government, a complete ban was put train becomes so jam-packed that most women are not lagging even one step on foot binding, which prevented the of the passengers standing find it very behind the males; rather they are leav- women from doing any sorts of physi- difficult even to place their feet. But I

54 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever have never seen or heard of any case of harassing or teasing females by their male co-passengers. Let alone harassment, no man even gazes at A Japanese War Veteran’s women in a way that can make them feel embarrassed. Even at night, the women here Ties with China are as safe as during the daytime. On many occasions I saw, through ——On Japanese Friend Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki the windows of my road-side apartment, girls strolling on the street Liu Pu, Chen Qiang alone at dead of night without any fear in their gestures. It is quite unimaginable in most of the countries on the globe. The situation is like this not only for the Chinese people; foreign people alike enjoy the same safety and security. My experiences can substantiate the claim. I roamed with my female friend around China – from suburban villages to solitary mountains, from unknown localities to crowded sea beach – but found nobody even to ask a question out of ill intention. When we strolled on the lonely footpaths or on the beach at night, we forgot to be scared of security. We do not get this sense of se- Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki curity from anyone’s word; rather it was from the situation that prevails. Forward the film Nanjing!Najing! directed by Lu One Bangladeshi-born Ameri- This year marks the 30th anniver- Chuan. It is now 72 years since he es- can artist was once telling me, while sary of the establishment of friendship- caped from the Japanese army because visiting Beijing, that the United city relations between Jinan of China he could not bear to see the atrocities States could envy China for the safe- and Wakayama in Japan, the first for- being committed against the Chinese ty and security of the women. That eign entity to have had such ties with people; and over that time, he gave up was a very objective observation. I Jinan. In this regard, a very special per- many opportunities to return to Japan only wish to add some points to it: son stands out: a soldier during China’s and reunite with his family. Instead, China deserves jealousy for its suc- War of Resistance against Japanese Ag- he did his best to provide free medical cess in women liberty and freedom gression who helped bring about this treatment to people in Jinan and with a too. And Nations across the globe particular friendship-city relationship heart of penance and redemption — al- should learn from China how it has and open the way for people-to-people though as an army doctor he stayed in attained this success and made the friendship between the two countries. the barracks and never fired a shot — country a heaven for the women only He was also one of the prototypes dedicated his life to people-to-people in six decades’ efforts. of the Japanese soldier Kadokawa in friendly interactions between China

55 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever and Japan. Bonds Started Here for the rest of his life. He has moved Jinan residents At No. 67, Yingxiongshan Road, On November 25, 1908, Hiro- throughout that period by his whole- an ordinary apartment building in Ji- shi Yamasaki was born into a doctor’s hearted medical services to its people. nan, we found a sign “Qilishan Clinic” family in Okayama Prefecture. From His name? Hiroshi Yamasaki, the last written on a piece of yellow paper his great grandfather onwards there had soldier of the Japanese invasion army glued to a time-worn burglar-proof been three generations in the family remaining in China. door. Pushing the door open gently, we practicing Chinese medicine. His moth- On December 1, 2010, the entered. The room was not big, but full er died when he was one year old and 102-year-old Yamasaki passed away of light. he was brought up by his older brother peacefully in Jinan. His body, accord- On one corner of the desk stood a and sister. ing to his last wishes, was donated to framed picture of an old man, looking He studied medicine in a hospital the School of Medicine of Shandong hale and hearty with an affable smile of Japan’s Red Cross Society when he University through the Red Cross So- in seeming welcome to every visitor. was a teenager and later became a well- ciety of Jinan. He was the first foreign This was Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki, known known doctor of Chinese medicine in friend to do so in Shandong. locally as “devil doctor” (the invading the locality. Curing the sickness to save From his legendary experiences, imperial soldiers were called “Japanese the patient had been his dream and also we see the evil nature of war, and at devils” in China). his mission as a doctor. the same time marvel at the shining When talking about him, we can- In July 7, 1937, the Lugouqiao humanity transcending national bound- not help but reopen the history of Ja- (Marco Polo Bridge) Incident on the aries and races. He conquered worldly pan’s invasion of China. In 1937, when outskirts of Beijing shocked the world. discrimination and prejudices with his China groaned under the trampling feet In that year, the 29-year-old Hiroshi Ya- unconventionality and purity and be- of the Japanese aggressors, he, as a masaki was compelled to go to China come a model for opening the door for Japanese doctor of Chinese medicine, as an army doctor, leaving his peaceful people-to-people friendly contact and came into contact with China in an un- hometown where grapes grew in profu- friendship between China and Japan. expected way and such contact lasted sion. He did not know what he was going to do in China, but understood that In January 1982, a joint government delegation of Shandong Province and Jinan City visiting Wakayama Prefecture and Wakayama City to promote the if he refused, he would be shot. establishment of friendship-city/province relations Once in China, the dreadful sights he saw along the way shocked him: dense smoke from roaring guns, the clank of knifes and swords, count- less Chinese families broken up and their members killed because of war. He loathed this brutal “sacred war” (in Japanese eyes) and could not come to terms with this sudden change of his role from saving people’s lives to killing. Late one night in April, 1938, risking his life, he escaped. The only thought he had in his mind was to get to the tip of the Shandong peninsular where he hope to board a ship for Ja- pan. He did not dare to talk to anyone on his escape route and nobody ever

56 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 doubted that this ragged and unkempt man could be a Japanese soldier. Penniless, he begged his way from Hebei Province to Henan Prov- ince, and then to Jinan City in Shan- dong Province and settled down there. Later whenever he was asked why he had come to Shandong, he would reply, “People here were nice, giving me food and water, and it was closer to home from here, and I wanted to go back home.” The war, however, went on for years and the fact that he was a deserter Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki seeing a young patient made him give up the idea of going home. In the years that followed, he hid Red Cross Society and with his medi- folk and went out of his way to meet his identity and got a job as a keeper cal skills offered free treatment to poor their needs without thought of personal in the materials depot of the Japanese- people. In this way he eased his feeling gains and losses.” Liu recalled the re- controlled “North China Transportation of deep guilt and consoled those who mote village of Liangzhuang by the Department” in Jinan masquerading as suffered from the wounds of war. mountain where wolves could be spot- a Japanese long-time resident of China. Mr. Li Baosheng, a neighbor of ted from time to time. In those years Once, seeking to save the life of Dr. Yamasaki, visited the clinic when- when people from that area took their a Chinese co-worker, he was beaten ever he got ill as a child. He learned children to see Dr. Yamasaki for emer- black and blue by a Japanese squadron from his parents that during the “dif- gency treatment in the evenings, he leader and was locked up, narrowly ficult period” from 1959 to 1961 when would escort them home with a flash- escaping death. Later, recalling the in- there was great famine, the doctor light afterwards. cident he said: “People of Jinan are my would not charge for his services even Guo Huayong from Jinan Univer- benefactors. I will never let them fall it meant starvation for himself. He of- sity, the four generations of whose fam- into the hands of the Japanese army. I ten said: “It doesn’t matter if you call ily had been treated by Dr. Yamasaki, only suffered the pain of my flesh, but me Japanese or Chinese. Nothing is held him in high esteem. “Dr. Yama- if I betrayed them, the pain inside me more important than to serve the people saki did his work quietly. He came into will kill me.” whole-heartedly, which is the greatest the public view only after a newspaper After Japan surrendered in August virtue.” report on him a couple of years before 1945, Japanese living in China, includ- Li Baosheng’s grandson also his death. He always believed that to ing members of the Anti-War League sought treatment from Dr. Yamasaki. do more good for the Chinese people of Japanese in China, were repatriated. Whenever a child needed an injection, was a way of repentance. Though he Hiroshi Yamasaki was resolute in his he would always play with the young- has gone, his high medical ethics have decision to stay in the country so that ster first and gave a quick shot before remained. Whenever thinking of him a he could do something to express his the child could realize it. He would feeling of warmth rises up inside us.” gratitude for the Chinese people and tell the parents how to take care of the atone for the crimes committed by the child after the treatment. “The Entrance to the Great Japanese militarists. “Dr. Yamasaki had high medical Way” Is Open He opened a clinic in his capac- skills,” said his colleague Liu Motong. After the normalization of dip- ity as a member of the International “He treated his patients as his kins- lomatic relations between China and

57 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever

Japan, Dr. Yamasaki went back to Ja- Mr. Yamasaki who was in Japan and their appreciation of his unremit- pan in 1976 to visit his family for the for a family visit learned about this. He ting efforts to promote the establish- first time. Stepping onto the soil of his immediately went to see Toshio Yama- ment of friendship ties. hometown after 40 years and seeing his saki, Chairman of the Wakayama Pre- After that, Mr. Yamasaki worked elder brother and sister and the tomb- fectural Assembly, to discuss the matter. with great zeal to promote the friendly stone his brother had erected for him He used his own experience in Jinan to relations between Shandong Province several decades ago, many emotions strongly recommend the arrangement. and Wakayama Prefecture. In April welled up in him. Towards this end, he worked as a go- 1984, accompanied by him, Shandong Reading the time-worn inscrip- between shuttling between the two cit- Governor Liang Buting visited Japan tion on the tombstone, their eyes were ies at his own expense. and signed the agreement on the estab- blurred with tears. His Japanese family He also wrote a letter to the then lishment of friendship-province/prefec- found a well-paid position for him in a Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Na- ture relations between Shandong and local hospital and arranged everything kasone, expressing his desire to dedi- Wakayama. for him to settle in Japan; however, Ya- cate himself to promoting people-to- In the brightly-lit Assembly Hall, masaki expressed his determination to people friendship between China and Wakayama Governor Shiro Kariya, return to China. He said: “As the moon Japan. Moved by his sincerity, the handed a note of gratitude to Mr. Yama- has light, people have feelings. I must Prime Minister wrote an inscription for saki in recognition of his outstanding go back.” Thus, after a stay of some him: “No entrance to the Great Way.” contributions to the friendly relations 20 days, he bid farewell to his kinsfolk On January 14, 1983, the signing between China and Japan. It was the and returned to China. ceremony was held at the city hall of 26th such note ever issued by the pre- With the development of friendly Wakayama. Mr. Yamasaki went back fecture. He was also elected a council relations between China and Japan, Ji- to attend the ceremony. At the banquet member of the Wakayama-Shandong nan and Wakayama City started to dis- marking the occasion, Chairman Toshio Prefectural/Provincial Friendship Asso- cuss twinning friendship-city ties in the Yamasaki, Wakayama Mayor Shozo ciation. Thereafter, the septuagenarian early 1980s. However, the two sides Ujita and Jinan Mayor Li Yuanrong became an envoy of friendly exchange differed greatly over the necessary pro- together offered the first toast to him, and toiled for the growth of China- cedures due to their cultural differences expressing their gratitude for his “ice- Japan friendly relations. and the negotiation came to an impasse. breaking act” during the negotiations While Japanese war veterans who had got stuck in China gradually Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki with his brother and sister and their families in Japan moved back to Japan because of their homesickness, Mr. Yamasaki settled down in Jinan and devoted his whole life to services to the people. In the history of contact between China and Japan, the contributions of Monk Jian Zhen’s eastward voyage to Japan have been told for over a thousand years; and the story of our Japanese friend Hi- roshi Yamasaki tells us that greatness grows out of ordinariness. He used his whole life to atone for the crimes committed by the Japa- nese militarists and to express his gratitude to the Chinese people; he worked

58 Voice of Friendship No. 173 September 2013 as a people’s envoy for Sino-Japanese heartedly is the highest virtue with no friendship with sincerity and hard ef- restraint of nationality.” forts. He said humbly, “‘no entrance to On December 1, 2010, this leg- the Great Way’ are words of encourage- endary man who had experienced hard- ment from the Prime Minister, which ship of life closed his eyes forever, means there is no ready entrance to the taking with him the love of his children Great Way, having no predecessors and and friends, his love for his native land, being unprecedented, but the entrance and his yearning for Sino-Japanese can be created. The Great Way can be friendship. When sorting through his learned, practiced and achieved.” belongings, his daughter found a piece of paper with the words: “The last The Last Atonement atonement of my life” signed on July In August 2003, the 95-year old 31, 2010. Yamasaki was hospitalized. Then, he After the body donation, the Red wanted to donate his body for medical Cross Society of Jinan had his name research after his death, and filled an inscribed on a special tombstone in the application form for body donation in Fushouyuan Cemetery in Changqing “The last atonement of my life” writ- April 2004. As there was no clause in District. Hiroshi Yamasaki, together ten by Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki when the Shandong Provincial Regulation on with other body donors, rest in peace his application to donate his body Body Donation regarding the accep- on the beautiful and serene hillside by for medical research after death had tance of foreigners’ bodies, his applica- the water. At every Qingming Festi- been approved tion wasn’t approved. val (Tomb-Sweeping Day), staff of the ties, Mr. Yamasaki also helped promote As unified State laws and regu- Foreign Affairs Office of Jinan Mu- cooperation between Jinan Knitting lations on body donation had not yet nicipal Government and the JMPAFFC Mill and Japan’s Gunze Co. Ltd. The been enacted in China, there were only will go to the cemetery to pay respect Japanese side supplied equipment such some regulations issued by local gov- and remember this legendary man who as weft knitting machines, bleaching ernments. Despite the complex proce- had lived through a century and more machines, sewing machines, etc. with dures for body donation, the old man, in two countries. a value of US$98,000 and sent four firm in his resolve, would not give up technicians to give technical support, and applied time and again. When the An Extraordinary People’s Envoy while the Jinan Knitting Mill provided Foreign Affairs Office of the Jinan Mu- Mr. Shi Wenliang who served as factory buildings, public facilities and nicipal Government and the Jinan Mu- Deputy Secretary General of the Jinan workers. The project went into produc- nicipal People’s Association for Friend- Municipal Government and Director of tion in May 1982. ship with Foreign Countries learned its Foreign Affairs Office in the early Its products were all sold in Ja- about his wish, they designated staffers 1980s was an old friend of Mr. Yama- pan. This was a successful case of to take charge for the coordination. saki. He participated in the negotiations compensation trade between China and After concerted efforts, Mr. Yama- for the establishment of friendship-city Japan in the 1980s. The Jinan Knitting saki’s application was finally approved relations between Jinan and Wakayama Mill through cooperation turned into in November 2007, one year before the and witnessed the signing of the agree- a star enterprise of foreign exchange old man’s birth centenary. Upon receiv- ment. earning in the city then. The coopera- ing the Donation Card and Certificate Today, this 83-year old man still tion between the two sides has lasted of Honor, he said happily, “The right of remembers clearly how Mr. Yamasaki till today. honor of laborers transcends national helped the two cities carry out ex- Li Zhongxue, former director of boundary. To serve the people whole- changes. Besides promoting city-to-city Foreign Affairs Office of Jinan Munici-

59 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever pal Government, recalled, since Jinan remembered, after the normalization of Zhongxue, President of the JMPAFFC, and Wakayama twinned friendship- diplomatic relations between China and was held in Jinan. In a warm and city ties, exchanges increased markedly Japan, the Japanese Government pro- friendly atmosphere and amid the sing- between Japan and Shandong Province vided financial support for all the Japa- ing of Happy Birthday, a big birthday and Jinan City. Whenever delegations nese veterans staying in China to visit cake on a tea trolley was pushed to the from the prefecture or city of Wakaya- Japan. center of the hall. ma came for a visit, Hiroshi Yamasaki He also donated the total sum of In the light of the candles, the would take part in the reception, and living subsidies the Japanese Govern- old man with tears in his eyes said even acted as interpreter. ment had given him for the duration of with emotion that it was the first grand He played a valuable role in coor- his stay in China and the remainder of birthday party he had ever had, espe- dination with the Japanese side, helping the traveling expenses to Jinan Jing- cially one held in a foreign country, Jinan to win over projects, funds and wulu Primary School. At that time he which he had never dreamed of. He technology. In the middle of 1980s, au- didn’t even have a decent house. expressed his gratitude to the govern- tomatic glove knitting machines were He explained that he enjoyed his ment and people of Jinan for accepting introduced from Simatsu Manufactur- life and wouldn’t want to put the gov- him and to the Foreign Affairs Office ing of Wakayama City to Jinan Knitting ernment to any trouble. Taking into and the JMPAFFC for their profound Mill, and sueding machines from Japan consideration of the actual condition of friendship, and pledged to continue to the No.1 Dyeing and Printing Mill of his family and to express gratitude to his role of friendship envoy between Jinan. him for his efforts to promote exchang- the Chinese and Japanese people and During the talks for introducing es between Jinan and Wakayama, an contribute his bit to the development the equipment, Mr. Yamasaki helped apartment unit was allocated to him. It of Jinan in the remaining years of his clinch the deal at half the price. In houses the Qilishan Clinic and is where life. those years of extreme shortage of he and his family have been living. In recognition of his contribu- funds, he saved for China quite a lot After the catastrophic earthquake tions, both China and Japan conferred of foreign exchange. Li Zhongxue also hit Wenchuan of Sichuan Province, on him many honors including Shan- he immediately made donations to the dong Person of the Year for 2009, the The Foreign Affairs Office of the Ji- disaster area. He often said, “Japan Prime Minister’s Award of Japan, and nan Municipal Government holding a centenary birthday party for Mr. Hi- should take some of the blame for pov- Persons of the Year Who Have Moved roshi Yamasaki on December 28, 2007 erty and backwardness in China. There- Jinan in 2010. fore, it should give more assistance Mr. Hiroshi Yamasaki was an or- to the country. China and Japan must dinary man who treated his patients strengthen economic exchanges. They with a benevolent heart. He was also a should discard previous grievances to great man who left a significant page in develop friendly relations so that war the annals of China-Japan friendship. would never be fought again. This is He had dedicated his life to the friendly what our generation must do. We must exchanges between the people of China set a good example for the next genera- and Japan and proved with his deeds tion. Children are the future of China- that “The key to sound relations be- Japan friendship.” tween states lies in amity between the Mr. Yamasaki won people’s re- people, and the key to amity between spect with his deeds. On December the people lies in heart-to-heart ex- 30, 2007, a birthday party to mark his changes”. He was a true “people’s am- centenary, hosted by Li Min, Director bassador”. Where there was great love, of Jinan Foreign Affairs Office and Li there was his “home”.