CONTENTS Retrospect and Prospect Create New Glory on Achievements of Past 60 Years �� Li Xiaolin 2

Number 174 Published in December 2013 Chinese and English CONTENTS Retrospect and Prospect Create New Glory on Achievements of Past 60 Years �� Li Xiaolin 2

Forums Seventh China-Spain Forum Held in Beijing �� Wu Wei 3 City Development in a Global Context �� Liu Yan 5 Forum on China-Japan Agricultural Exchange and Cooperation Held in Beijing �� Wang Lei 7

Friendly Contacts Governor Brown Revisits China After 27 Years �� Zhang Heqiang 9 Friendship Spanning Two Centuries Between China and Canada �� Shu Zhang 11 Philippine Local Government Delegation in China ��Hu Yang 15 Japanese Silk Road Tour Delegation in Xinjiang �� Zhang Jiahu 47 A Trip to China ��Daniel Martin (Colombia) 48

Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou Yangzhou, a City Full of Charm in China �� Yuan Dan 18 Expand Friendship-City Platform to Build Yangzhou as a World City ��Deng Qing 20 A Grand Session with the World in Name of Canals �� Xu Pei 22 Jade Buddha Statues Witness Friendship Ties Between Yangzhou and Yangong of Myanmar �� Yuan Dan 25 Mr. Jaak Gabriels’ China Ties �� Zhao Lan 27

In Other Lands CPAFFC Delegation Visits Three West African Countries �� Tang Ruimin 16 Visit to ROK by Chinese Young Envoys of Friendship �� Zhou Xiaodan 35 Cultivate Successors to Sino-Japanese Friendship in the 21st Century ��Chuan You 37 Experience Korean Culture on a Visit to Guangju �� Zhang Yan 39

Friendship Activities CRFA’s New Leadership Elected ��Our Staff Reporter 30 SPF Donates a School Bus to Basa Middle School in Yunnan �� Xing Shuhua 30 Carry Forward the Spirit of the Flying Tigers ��Chuan You 31 Fourth China Xinjiang International Children’s Art Festival Promotes Friendship �� Zhang Jiahu 32 International Tour of Exhibition of Chinese Characters Launched at the Opening Ceremony of Its Capital Show �Our Staff Reporter 34

China’s Foreign Friends Jean Ping, a Legendary Figure in Sino-African Contacts �� Tang Ruimin 41 Galina Kulikova, Cultural Envoy of Sino-Russian Friendship �� Qian Guangjian 42

They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever Unceasing Dream to Return “Home” �� Miao Baotian, Bo Zheng 45 Front cover: Li Xiaolin, President of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries 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 Retrospect and Prospect

Create New Glory on Achievements of Past 60 Years ——In Commemoration of CPAFFC’s 60th Anniversary

Li Xiaolin

s 2014, a year of hope and port from friendship organizations and jecting vitality and deepening the con- Aexpectations, approaches, we are personages at home and abroad in its notation for State relations. filled with joy and excitement to greet people-to-people diplomatic work. Through the efforts of the past the 60th anniversary of the founding Holding high the banner of “Friendship, 40 years, the work of international of the Chinese People’s Association Cooperation, Peace and Development”, friendship cities under the CPAFFC’s for Friendship with Foreign Countries several generations of CPAFFC work- coordination has made great headway. (CPAFFC). Looking back at the ers have made friends extensively in Now, more than 2,000 cities in China’s brilliant course over the past six the international arena, sowed the seeds 30 provinces, autonomous regions decades, we are full of pride; looking of friendship in the hearts of the peo- and municipalities have established into the future of people-to-people ple of many countries, and spread the friendship-city/province ties with their diplomacy, we are determined to hymn of peace to every corner of the counterparts in 131 countries, provid- continue the good work and achieved five continents. Through its hard work ing a solid and broad bridge of commu- new glory. of the past six decades, it has made in- nication and cooperation between local numerable international friends who governments of China and other coun- Carrying on Its Mission of support China’s construction and devel- tries. Making Friends opment; through unremitting efforts, it Every year, the CPAFFC receives On May 3, 1954, in accordance has made indelible contributions to the about 3,000 person/time visitors from with the principle of “placing hope on country’s people-to-people diplomacy. about 130 countries, sends more than the people” in New China’s diplomatic 2,000 people on friendly visit to 60- work put forward by Chairman Mao Great Results from odd countries, and organizes nearly Zedong and on the initiative of Premier Hard Work of 60 Years 100 large-scale activities in an effort to Zhou Enlai, a brand-new organization The 60 years of the CPAFFC are let the world have an objective under- engaged in people-to-people diploma- years of reaping friendship, years of standing of China and the Chinese peo- cy—the Chinese People’s Association furthering cooperation, years of advo- ple have a rational look at the world, for Cultural Relations with Foreign cating peace and years of promoting thus playing a key role in the country’s Countries (assuming its present name harmony. public diplomacy. in 1969)—was founded with its sacred Up to now, the CPAFFC has es- The CPAFFC, together with more mission of “making friends for the tablished friendly and cooperative rela- than 300 local friendship associations country”. tions with nearly 500 non-governmen- in China, have made contributions to Over the past 60 years, it has re- tal organizations and institutions in 157 the country’s overall diplomacy, the de- ceived great attention and care from countries and set up friendship asso- velopment of the motherland and world successive Party and State leaders and ciations with 46 countries and regions. peace, and injected positive energy to the enthusiastic participation and sup- This has laid a strong foundation, in- the creation of a good international

2 Forums environment for China’s reform and opening up. Seventh China-Spain Forum A New Starting Point for Greater Goals Held in Beijing On May 15, 2014, the CPAFFC will host activi- Wu Wei ties in celebration of its 60th anniversary. It will invite Chinese and foreign friends of various circles who have cared for and supported its work over the years to participate in the activities. Together we will review the course the CPAFFC has traversed, talk about friendship between the Chinese and other people, and express our appreciation for the great support given to us by people of various sectors both at home and abroad. The CPAFFC will take the 60th anniversary as an op- Main speakers of the plenary meeting of CSF’s Economic Committee portunity to carry forward its fine tradition, be creative he seventh China-Spain Forum (CSF) Conference (CPPCC); Uyunqimg, former in its work and make new T sponsored by the CPAFFC was held in Vice Chairperson of the NPC Standing achievements in fulfilling its Beijing on September 12. With the theme Committee and Chairperson of the CSF mission. It will use the 60th of “40 Years of China-Spain Relations Chinese Committee; Miao Xu, Minister anniversary as a new histori- — Reviewing the Past, Meeting the of Industry and Information Technology; cal starting point to continue Challenges and Looking Forward to the Li Xiaolin, CPAFFC President; Xie Hang- its efforts to uphold the ban- Future”, the meeting focused on using the sheng, Vice Foreign Minister; Meng Xiaosi, ners of friendship and coop- 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations Vice President of the All-China Women’s eration and add a new glori- to consolidate friendship, enhance mutual Federation; Pedro Solbes, Chairman of the ous chapter to the annals of trust, expand consensus and deepen CSF Spanish Committee and former Dep- people-to-people friendship cooperation and open up new channels and uty Prime Minister of Spain; Jose Manuel between China and other fields for cooperation. Soria, Minister of Industry, Energy and countries for realizing the Among more than 500 people pres- Tourism; Gonzalo de Benito, First Deputy goals set for the Party and ent were Ji Bingxuan, Vice Chairman of Minister of Foreign Affairs; Juan Llado, the People’s Republic’s the Standing Committee of the National President of the Council of Spanish-Chi- centenaries and the Chinese People’s Congress (NPC); Ma Biao, Vice nese Foundation; and Manuel Valencia dream of great national re- Chairman of the National Committee of Alonso, Spanish Ambassador to China. newal. the Chinese People’s Political Consultative CPAFFC Vice President Li Jianping

3 Forums presided over the opening ceremony, During the forum, ICBC, a lead- improve the overall environment, de- after which plenary sessions on eco- ing Chinese commercial bank, and velop energy-saving and environment- nomic cooperation and local coopera- Santander Bank reached a cooperation friendly transportation and new alterna- tion, and six sub-committee round- agreement. tive energies, and respond to the needs tables were held. The CSF Local Government of residents in the process of city de- The plenary meeting on economic Committee, set up in 2010, successfully velopment. cooperation, “Spanish and Chinese En- built a platform for local governments They all agreed there were many terprises: Global Cooperative Partners to enhance mutual understanding and opportunities for cooperation in the city under the New International Economic exchanges. To accommodate the needs development. The meeting helped bring Model”, was co-chaired by Jaime Gar- of rapid urbanization in China and local leaders and entrepreneurs of the cia Legaz, Secretary of State for Trade exchanges and cooperation between two countries together to explore some of the Spanish Ministry of Economy Chinese and Spanish cities, a round- innovative schemes to solve the devel- and Competitiveness, and CPAFFC table meeting on local cooperation was opmental difficulties confronting cities. Vice President Li Jianping. Li Jinzao, expanded to a plenary meeting hosted Through the forum they hoped to find Vice Minister of Commerce addressed solely by the CPAFFC. specific projects in the fields of science representatives from some 200 famous The meeting on “Comprehensive and technology and environmental Chinese and Spanish enterprises. Zhang and Sustainable Development of Cit- protection so as to promote common Hongli, Vice President of the Industrial ies” aimed to boost inter-city coopera- development and bring benefit to the and Commercial Bank of China; Bai tion, promote the sharing of experienc- people of cities of both countries. Haibo, CEO of the HNA Hotel Group; es in pursuit of sustained and efficient Six round-table meetings on Qu Wenchu, Senior Vice President of development, encourage the applica- law, tourism, language, gender equal- Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.; Juan tion of new technologies benefiting ity, education and food were held. Rodriguez, consultant with the Santand- social and economic development, and Of them the meetings on language er Bank Ltd. of Spain; Jenaro Garcia analyzed the existing effective mecha- and food were held for the first time. Martin, President and CEO of Company nism in coordination and cooperation In order to make the contents of the GOWEX; and S. A. J. Jon Imaz, Direc- between localities and cities. discussions more target-oriented, tor of Industrial Zone and New Energy Inigo de la Serna, President of Chinese and Spanish organizers set Division of REPSOL, spoke on behalf the Spanish Federation of Munici- topics for discussion and provided a of their respective enterprises. palities and Provinces and Mayor of brief explanation of the topics to fur- Everyone agreed that, over the Santander, and the mayors of Val- ther define the scope and focus of the past four decades, bilateral trade ladolid and Villafranca de los Barros discussion. In the spirit of “seeking has experienced sustained and rapid were present. Liu Shuguang, Mayor of actual results by holding short meet- growth and two-way investment has Weifang, Yang Shihao, Deputy Chief ings and making short speeches”, the increased continuously, with the fields of the Tianjin Binhai New Area, and six round-tables, each lasting 75 min- of investment further expanded and Zhu Aixun, Vice Mayor of Wuxi, also utes, were held simultaneously. After cooperation in many fields deepened. spoke at the meeting that drew more each short speech, the participants They discussed how Chinese and than 50 people from provincial, region- interacted with the speaker. The meet- Spanish enterprises as global coopera- al, municipal people’s associations for ings achieved good results in a lively tive partners could employ their advan- friendship with foreign countries and atmosphere. tages for common development under foreign affairs offices. A reception in celebration of the the changing global trade environment Participants fully exchanged 40th anniversary of the establishment and make efforts to win more coopera- views on how to implement rational of China-Spain diplomatic ties was tion opportunities and expand into new planning, reduce emissions and occu- held on the evening of September 12 markets. pancy of land used for environment, after the forum concluded.

4 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

City Development in a Global Context ——2013 China International Cities Cooperation Forum

Liu Yan

he 2013 China International Cities Wang Rulin, Secretary of Jilin experience, urban economic develop- T Cooperation Forum co-sponsored Provincial CPC Committee, and Ba- ment and urban planning in the era of by the CPAFFC, the China International yanqolu, Governor of Jilin Province, met globalization, and the overall functions Friendship Cities Association (CIFCA) with the principal foreign participants. and orientation of cities. The forum and the People’s Government of Jilin Li Xiaolin, President of the CPAFFC enabled attendees to gain an in-depth Province was held in the provincial and CIFCA; Chen Weigen, Deputy understanding of new changes and new capital of Changchun from September Governor of Jilin; Andrey Denisov, characteristics of the international en- 6 to 7. Russian Ambassador to China; Choi vironment, as well as promoting sci- It attracted over 400 participants, Moon-soon, Governor of Gangwon-do, entific city development and boosting including 93 local government offi- Republic of Korea; and Karoly Takacs, pragmatic cooperation between cities cials, heads of local government orga- Mayor of Oroszlanyi of Hungary, spoke of different countries. nizations and city associations from 20 at the opening ceremony. In his meeting with the principal countries, along with 227 representa- Within the forum’s general frame- foreign participants, Wang Rulin said tives of Chinese local governments in- work of “city development in the global that to advance urbanization actively cluding 17 mayors and 56 heads of for- context — changing the growth model, yet prudently was an important strate- eign affairs offices from 23 provinces adjusting economic structure and pro- gic task in China’s endeavor to build an and 70 cities. There were also 54 rep- moting development”, key participants all-round, moderately prosperous soci- resentatives from Chinese and foreign spoke on such topics as China’s urban- ety and realize modernization as well businesses. ization requires global perspective and as an inevitable trend of the economic The main venue of the 2013 China International Cities Cooperation Forum

5 Forums and social development. Since 2011, green development.” he Forum on China-Japan the One Hundred Cities Forum (the She put forward three propos- T Agricultural Exchange and predecessor of China International als for pressing ahead with green de- Cooperation was held in Beijing on Cities Cooperation Forum) had velopment, putting people first and September 10. It was jointly sponsored made achievements in summarizing deepening international cooperation. by the Chinese People’s Association experience of Chinese and foreign Friendship-city activities should take for Friendship with Foreign Countries cities in urbanization and the mod- urbanization as a new platform and (CPAFFC), the China-Japan Friendship ernization and internationalization a new bright spot for practical coop- Association (CJFA), Keidanren (Japan of future cities. eration. Business Federation) and the Keizai Jilin should earnestly learn Russian Ambassador Andrey Koho Center (KKC) to promote from the successful experience and Denisov said the forum held as an friendly exchanges and practical good practices of those at the forum international event for the first time cooperation in agriculture on the and strive to blaze a way of urban- reflected its significance. His coun- occasion of the 35th anniversary of the ization tallying with local conditions try placed particular importance on signing of the bilateral Treaty of Peace and with its own characteristics. developing regional cooperation in- and Friendship. In her speech at the opening cluding exchanges and cooperation The more than 100 participants ceremony Li Xiaolin said: “Up to between the border areas of Russia were experts and scholars in agricul- now, China has formed 2,022 pairs and China. ture, and representatives of relevant of friendship cities (provinces/states) The choice of Changchun, lo- organizations and enterprises from both with 131 countries. Friendship cit- cated near Russia, was also signifi- China and Japan. ies had become a principal channel cant. China and Russia conducted a for carrying out exchanges and co- large scale regional cooperation ex- CJFA President Tang operation in all fields. International emplified by 203 pairs of friendship Jiaxuan’s Meeting friendship-city activities play an cities. He hoped the two countries On the morning of September 10, irreplaceable important role in Chi- would continuously seek coopera- CJFA President Tang Jiaxuan met with na’s modernization drive and have tion opportunities and jointly create Muneo Kurauchi, Head of the Planning far-reaching impact on promoting a better future on the basis of deep- Department of the JBF Committee on urbanization and local development ened exchanges between them. China and Senior Managing Executive in the country.” To promote practical coopera- Officer of the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubi- “China which is at an impor- tion, sub-sessions and presentations shi UFJ, and other principal Japanese tant stage of urbanization and a criti- of international city projects were participants. Also present was CJFA cal moment of economic upgrading also held at the forum, exploring such Vice President Wang Xiuyun. and social transformation, has a topics as sustainable development in Tang noted that bilateral exchang- huge potential and great space for creating new-type urbanization, the es in various fields had been seriously development. We are under enor- role of intelligent environmental pro- affected since the implementation of mous pressure in our development tection in urbanization, etc. the so-called “nationalization” of the and confronted with ‘two unprec- At these meetings, Chinese and Diaoyu Islands by the Japanese govern- edented factors’, the first being a foreign experts on urban studies, ment. country with a population of 1.3 bil- government officials and entrepre- The CJFA and JBF signed an lion striving to achieve moderniza- neurs shared their views, studied ex- agreement on friendly exchanges and tion, and the second the difficulties isting problems and trends in urban- cooperation in November 2012 with encountered in the modernization ization, and considered the strategic the aim of giving impetus to the de- process to protect the environment direction for sustainable develop- velopment of Sino-Japanese relations and conserve resources to achieve ment of cities in the future. through people-to-people contact so

6 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013 Forum on China-Japan Agricultural Exchange And Cooperation Held in Beijing

Wang Lei

that they would return to the track of normal development. Under this framework, the two sides successfully organized the Semi- nar on Sino-Japanese Relations in Tokyo in March as well as the agricultural exchange and cooperation forum. These activities would enhance mutual understanding and trust and have practical significance, he said. Tang said that, in times of difficulties in Sino-Japanese relations, non- governmental organizations of the two countries should uphold their belief in friendship and work in a persistent and down-to-earth way to promote ex- CJFA President Tang Jiaxuan meeting with Muneo Kurauchi, Head of the Planning Department of the JBF Committee on China changes and cooperation in economy, trade, culture, local government, youth ization, urbanization and agricultural bilateral agricultural exchanges, adapt and other areas. modernization (the “new four modern- themselves to new situations, explore By bringing into full play their izations”). It would deepen reform and innovative ideas and discuss how to use role of “promoting official ties through opening up to achieve greater econom- scientific methods to promote greater people-to-people contact” and “pro- ic development, and this would provide progress. moting political relations through eco- many new opportunities for bilateral Mr. Kurauchi said the Sino-Japa- nomic and trade contact”, they could cooperation. nese relationship was one of the most inject positive energy into Sino-Japa- Tang noted that China and Japan important bilateral relationships of all nese friendship and improve relations. had a long history of agricultural ex- for Japan. Being the world’s second Although China had made tre- changes and cooperation. These had and third largest economies, it was of mendous achievements in agriculture intensified since the founding of the great importance for the development since the reform and opening up, it still People’s Republic of China. Japan’s and prosperity of Asia and the world had a long way to go to achieve mod- advanced technology, experience and that China and Japan should strengthen ernization in agriculture. ideas had played an important role in friendly cooperation in various fields. China’s new leadership had China’s agricultural development. Agriculture was a major area con- stressed on many occasions that the He hoped that the two sides cerning national life and the two coun- country would advance towards its would take the forum as an opportu- tries were confronted with some press- goal of industrialization, information- nity to summarize the fruitful results of ing problems. The two sides, being

7 Forums highly complementary in agriculture, had been a major component of bilat- chu, professor of Remin University, should enhance mutually beneficial co- eral cooperation. The two countries had Teng Rengui, Deputy Director of the operation and work to achieve common made remarkable achievements in ag- Management Committee of Dalian’s development. ricultural exchanges and cooperation, Jinzhou New Area, Shinichi Shogenji, On the 35th anniversary of the playing a positive role in the develop- professor of Nagoya University, Kenji signing of the Treaty of Peace and ment of bilateral friendly relations. Someno, research fellow of the Tokyo Friendship between Japan and China, China and Japan enjoyed natural Foundation, and Yoshiyuki Shimizu, the JBF was willing to take the oppor- advantages and a long history of agri- Director and Senior Managing Execu- tunity to strengthen communication cultural cooperation. They had broad tive Officer of Sumitomo Chemical and cooperation with the CJFA and common interests and vast space for Co., Ltd., discussed enthusiastically the other relevant organizations in China cooperation. She hoped that the forum agricultural policies of the two coun- and carry out more grassroots-oriented would promote further pragmatic ex- tries, trade of agricultural products, friendly exchanges to enhance mutual changes and deepen and expand coop- investment and technical cooperation understanding and friendship. eration in agriculture. in agriculture and relevant fields, and Kurauchi said bilateral economic other topics of common concern, and The Forum and trade exchanges and cooperation reached consensus. The forum on China-Japan Ag- at the people-to-people level had be- The forum hosted by the CPAFFC ricultural Exchange and Cooperation come increasingly important. He hoped and the JBF was a new attempt to pro- with the theme of “Prospects of Co- forum participants would have an in- mote pragmatic bilateral cooperation operation in Agriculture” aimed to in- depth discussion to promote further ag- and it achieved complete success. The crease mutual understanding, strength- ricultural exchanges and cooperation. two sides had a frank, pragmatic and en bilateral pragmatic cooperation and Well-known Chinese and Japa- fruitful discussion, of not only practical open up more cooperation channels to nese experts and scholars in agriculture significance to better carry out bilateral realize complementary advantages and and business representatives including exchanges and cooperation in agricul- mutually beneficial results. Bian Zhenhu, President of the China ture, but also set a good example for CJFA Vice President Wang Xiuyu Chamber of Commerce for Import and efforts to promote early improvement and Mr. Kurauchi both addressed the Export of Foodstuffs, Native Produce of the bilateral relations at the non- forum. Wang Xiuyun said agriculture and Animal By-Products, Zeng Yin- governmental and economic levels. Chief speakers at the forum

8 Friendly Contacts

Governor Brown Revisits China After 27 Years

Zhang Heqiang

“California is the largest state in America, facing China, and conducts the most frequent exchanges with it. I hope California can build a bridge of friendship across the Pacific Ocean between the United States and China,” said Premier Li Keqiang in his meeting with state governor Jerry Brown at Zhongnanhai on April 11. He also expressed a wish that California could play a leading role in promoting exchanges and cooperation between states (provinces) and cities of the U. S. and China. Governor Brown, once the youngest and now the most senior holder of the position in US history last vis- Premier Li Keqiang meeting with Californian Governor Jerry Brown ited China 27 years ago. The 75-year- old Governor led a trade delegation of rapidly growing economy, dynamic paid visits to the Minister of Com- more than 100 members who visited market and bountiful talents. If China merce, the Chairman of the National Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Guang- and California could join hands and co- Development and Reform Commission zhou and Shenzhen between April 8 operate, it would create unlimited busi- and the Minister of Environmental Pro- and 16. ness opportunities and bring benefits tection, and signed cooperation agree- This action alone fully shows that to both sides. It was safe for China to ments or memoranda of understanding. the CEO of the 9th largest economy of invest in California. “Together we can For example, he signed the MOU the world (California’s GDP in 2012 overcome all difficulties, and we can on the Establishment of the Chinese approximated US$2 trillion) and the move mountains,” he said. Provinces and California Joint Working most innovative state of America at- On the issue of how to look at the Group on Trade and Investment Coop- taches great importance to the fast- proposed collaboration, he was full of eration. An official of the Ministry of growing Chinese market. expectation. His weeklong schedule in Commerce said that, with the aim of Governor Brown said California China was very tight, and his diligent promoting mutual investment and trade had unique strength in agriculture, in- and down-to-earth work style resulted between Chinese provinces/cities and formation technology, medicine, clean in a rich harvest. In addition to winning foreign states/cities, the agreement with energy, high education and scientific high-level support like the meeting with California was the first of its kind. innovations while China possessed a Premier Li Keqiang, Governor Brown Wherever he went, Governor

9 Friendly Contacts

Brown was accorded a high-level re- sealed and letters of intent signed, trans- gifts with him. ception. Han Zheng, Party Chief of lating into reality the Governor’s elec- He will not forget that, while he Shanghai, Luo Zhijun, Party Chief of tion pledges of increasing employment was still in Guangdong Province, Presi- Jiangsu Province, Hu Chunhua and Zhu and creating win-win opportunities. dent Xi Jinping especially entrusted Xiaodan, Party Chief and Governor of Returning after 27 years, Gov- a friend to convey his kind regards to Guangdong Province, held a meeting or ernor Brown sang praises of the high the Governor and his wife, welcom- a banquet to welcome the delegation. buildings, wide streets and an atmo- ing them to visit China again. He will Governor Brown’s visit was sphere of fashion and vigor in the large not forget the welcoming banquet highly focused and rewarding. In cities. What struck the Governor even hosted by CPAFFC President Mme. Li Shanghai, he presided over an unveil- more was the moment when he and his Xiaolin. ing ceremony for the Californian Trade delegation took bullet train rides from Governor Brown was so busy dur- and Investment Office in China. In Beijing to Shanghai, and then on to ing his stay in China. Nonetheless, he Nanjing, he identified the exchange and Nanjing. It took only five hours thirty did not forget to show his care for the cooperation projects for the next stage minutes to get to Shanghai from Bei- Chinese with him on his tour. I myself with Jiangsu Province, California’s sis- jing, and only 90 minutes from Shang- accompanied the Governor throughout ter province in China. hai to Nanjing. He was amazed at the his trip on behalf of the CPAFFC. The In Shenzhen, Governor Brown speed and comfort of Chinese high- Governor courteously called me “Mr. paid a special visit to the BYD Com- speed train, and impressed by groups of Friendship”. pany. Thanks to the in-depth coopera- high rises and modern plants flashing He and his wife signed on the tion with BYD, he became more confi- by before his eyes. book I happened to bring with me as dent in achieving his goal of increasing Not only did Governor Brown a souvenir. This was an evidence of renewable energy share from 23% to return home with fruitful results in the title of “Mr. Friendship” he had 30%, and raising the electric automo- trade and business contracts, but he especially conferred on me, and gave bile ownership to a million in Califor- also forged a profound friendship with full expression to the fact that Gover- nia by 2020. Chinese leaders both at the central and nor Brown cherished friendly senti- Accompanying Governor Brown, local government levels. He will not ment for ordinary Chinese and that he the 100-odd delegates made full use of forget the cordial talk with China’s new recognized the service I provided to the opportunity and held many business premier, the youthful and dynamic Pre- ensure the success of his mission to meetings and talks. Many deals were mier Li Keqiang, and the exchange of China. Governor Brown returned home The writer of the article with Governor Jerry Brown and his wife via Hong Kong after visiting Shenzhen. His off-the-cuff speaking style on all occasions allowed us to appreciate a statesman’s elegant demeanor, who was elected Californian Governor three times, Mayor of Oakland twice, and campaigned for Democratic Presiden- tial nomination three times. In his meeting with Premier Li Keqiang, he said he would employ oriental wisdom in his efforts to win the Californian gubernatorial election next year, and become the longest serving governor in US history.

10 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Friendship Spanning Two Centuries Between China and Canada

Shu Zhang

inchang, in Dayi County of chuan Provincial People’s Association ceremony. X Chengdu, Sichuan Province, for Friendship with Foreign Countries Fu Yonglin, Vice Mayor of is a beautiful town with quaint (SIFA), the Chengdu Municipal Peo- Chengdu, and Chen Lizhang, County residential houses, winding corridors, ple’s Association for Friendship with Magistrate of Dayi, as well as many verdant trees, stone bridges and Foreign Countries (CMPAFFC), the Xinchang residents warmly welcomed rippling streams. In June, it greeted a Dayi County Committee of the CPC, the Canadian friends. It was a very 26-member delegation of descendants Dayi County Government, the Canadi- warm day with bright sunshine, but of Canadian friends on a “home an Embassy in China and the Canadian what warmed people even more was coming” visit, the fifth of its kind. Consulate General in Chongqing; it the deep friendship that emerged. The Chinese and Canadian Gov- was supported by the CPAFFC and the The people of Xinchang per- ernments designated 2013 as the Chi- China Society for People’s Friendship formed traditional programs such as na-Canada Year of Culture to deepen Studies (CSPFS). Yao-mei (youngest sister) lantern mutual understanding between the two The opening ceremony was held dance, Niuer (calf) lantern dance, lion peoples and enhance friendship. in the square in front of the museum. lantern dance, dragon dance and folk This included “Welcoming Ca- Sarah Taylor, Minister-Counselor of the wedding ceremony, and also presented nadian Friends Returning Home” and Canadian Embassy in Beijing, and her dough figurines, sugar paintings and the opening ceremony of the Museum party and representatives of the CSPFS paper-cuts to visitors. of Old Historical Photos on June 11 in and the Beijing Peace World Painting In 1891, several Canadians set out Xinchang, jointly sponsored by the Si- and Calligraphy Academy attended the from Vancouver to cross the ocean on The Canadian delegation in front of the Museum of Old Historical Photos

11 Friendly Contacts

built to solve the education problems of children of the Canadian volunteers in Sichuan. These photos show how the students studied in this special school, and the contributions to the development of Canada-China relationship made by them. The fourth section highlights how Chinese and Canadian volunteers underwent all kinds of difficulties and spent eight years to collect these old photos and organize the exhibition and “homecoming” activities. The museum has not only record- ed a century of the cultural exchanges Having a picture taken in front of the exhibition board between China and Canada, but also a long journey to Sichuan Province to A century ago, these Canadians become a new tourist attraction in Xin- run hospitals and schools and dissemi- not only lived and worked in Sichuan, chang. nate modern civilization. Their children but also took a great number of photos Chen Lizhang said: “With the and even grandchildren who were born that are now precious historical records passing of time, memories have and grew up in Sichuan continued to for studying modern Chinese history. blurred, but the history is still clearly engage in medical, educational and To preserve these memories, and to discernible. Three years ago, more charitable work and forged profound review the past to understand the pres- than 500 old photos showing the his- friendship with the Chinese people. ent, the Dayi County Government built tory of that period found their ‘home’ Among them were Dr. O. L. the Museum of Old Historical Pho- in Xinchang at an exhibition, serving Kilborn, C.W. Service and Ashley tos. There are over 1,000 photographs as a new bridge for promoting friendly Woodward Lindesay, who set up on display and even the cameras they exchanges between China and Canada schools and hospitals, bringing ad- used. and raising the level of our county’s vanced science and technology to The museum consists of an intro- opening up. China. There were also James Endicott, duction hall and four sections. In the “In the past three years, the his- Earl Willmott and William Small, who first section are photos showing the life toric moments fixed in these black and went deep among the Chinese people, and work of Canadians in Chengdu and white images and the touching stories understood and sympathized with them how they traveled extensively around behind them moved us deeply, as well and supported their War of Resistance Sichuan to spread Western learning, as every visitor, and these stories will Against Japanese Aggression and the disseminate modern civilization and be told far and wide.” cause of liberation. set up the West China Hospital and the He went on to say that only They were cordially received by West China Union University. two days before, he received an auto- Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai and other Chi- In the second section are photos graphed letter from the Mayor of Owen nese leaders of the older generation, and about the culture, history, local condi- Sound, a city in Southwestern Ontario. some, including Endicott and Willmott, tions and customs and natural land- The Mayor expressed her wish to es- received the honorary title of Friendship scape of old Chengdu, Dujianyan, and tablish friendly and cooperative ties Ambassador by the CPAFFC. Among the upper reaches of the Minjiang. In with Dayi County. Owen Sound is a the members of this delegation were the third section are photos of students city where Dr. Norman Bethune, a leg- two granddaughters of Endicott and a of the Canadian School, offering edu- endary doctor who died in the course of granddaughter of Willmott. cation kindergarten to high school, first treating wounded Red Army soldiers in

12 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013 the 1930s, once studied and lived. daughter Barbara Lyn Anderson to a Beth Leach, daughter of Profes- Phyllis Beverley Donaghy, faded old photo and pointed at a small sor A.F. Lutley, who worked in the daughter of Dr. Steward Allen, spoke girl in the photo, saying, “This is me. I West China Union University in the on behalf of the delegation. She said, was six years old at that time.” 1930s, donated a piece of well-pre- the members had been born in Cheng- She told Wang Mingfeng, a cor- served, exquisite hand-made embroi- du, Chongqing, Zigong or Omei Moun- respondent of the overseas edition of dery of the Qing Dynasty. tain respectively, and there they had at- the People’s Daily standing beside her, David Spooner, son of Roy tended school and worked. The home- that, “I brought my daughter ‘home’, Spooner, once Dean of the Department coming visit made them very excited. hoping Canada-China friendship will of Chemistry of the West China Union Her parents came to Sichuan in pass on from generation to generation”. University, donated a water color 1929 with the hope of pursuing their The granddaughter of Earl Will- Dinghy on the Water painted by Mrs. dreams together with the Chinese mott donated some old photos that had Morse. He explained that Dr. and Mrs. people. They stayed for 22 years and never been published. William Reginald Morse came to Chi- contributed to China’s health care un- The 97-year-old Isabel Crook, na in 1914 and Dr. Morse had partici- dertaking. Even on his deathbed, her who has settled down in Beijing and pated in the founding and developing father had said how he missed China who once taught in the Beijing Foreign the Medical School of the West China and never felt regret for his work and Studies University, especially asked her Union University and had worked life in Sichuan. sons Carl Crook and Michael Crook to there. This was the third time she had present to the museum two books writ- Later, he served as Dean of returned “home”. She had seen for her- ten by her about rural areas and farmers the Department of Medicine. Mrs. self that the Chinese people and her Si- in northern China. Morse was a painter and did many oil chuan fellow-townsfolk had not forgot- Marion Walker donated to the mu- paintings. According to records, the ten them, and the friendship was passed seum an oil painting The Three Gorges couple left China in 1937 because of on from generation to generation. This of the Yangtze River painted by her Dr. Morse’s poor health. Mrs. Morse would have been a great consolation to father, Lewis C Walmsley, the second passed away in 1959. her late father. principal of the Canadian School, in the David Spooner also donated to the In her speech at the museum’s 1930s. museum a clay toy figurine of a Chi- opening ceremony, Sarah Taylor Canadian friends joining in the folk dance extended her sincere thanks to the CPAFFC, SIFA and the CMPAFFC for their support to and organization of the activity, and to the Chinese volunteers for their years of effort and dedication to collecting the old photos and inviting Canadian friends to “return home”. She stressed that friendly contacts between the people were most precious. When looking at the old photos, Canadian volunteers recalled their happy childhood. Marion Walker, granddaughter of Dr. Kilborn, founder of the West China Hospital—China’s first Western-style hospital—and the West China Union University, drew her

13 Friendly Contacts nese boy in traditional costume of the and came back to the hospital for treat- touched by these old photos that in- 1930s. He said his father Roy Spooner ment. The baby’s illness grew worse. spired him to spare no effort to support and Mother Kathleen came to Chengdu After the hospital treated him with the the activity of collecting them. in 1931 and his father taught chemistry steam therapy, his condition began to Xiang Suzhen, a member of the in the West China Union University. He take a favorable turn. team, gave a briefing about the prepa- was born in Chengdu in 1933. “But when a nurse was turning on rations for the exhibition: “Nine years He talked about the special mean- the steam, an accident happened and have passed since Robert Edmonds, ing of the figurine. “This figurine was the baby’s face was burnt and became who was born in Zigong, proposed to made by Dr. Marion Manly. When I deformed. Dr. Manly was shocked, hold an exhibition of the old photos was a child, it was already at my home. and, to facilitate the treatment, she ar- during his visit to Sichuan in 2004. Dr. Marion Manley was born into a ranged for the baby’s parents to live Over the past years, led by the team’s missionary’s family in 1898. Her par- with her in the hospital. She brought chief adviser Zhang Biao and feeling ents Wilson Manly and Florence Manly him up as her own son before he was obliged and moved by the old photos, came to China in 1893. discharged at the age of seven. You we have held six exhibitions, among “Dr. Marion Manly grew up in can read the book My Memory of Dr. which three were held in Beijing, pub- Sichuan. After finishing her study in Marion Manly written by Hu Zhong- lished a large album Chengdu, My medicine in the United States, she came yi. I know that a friend of Mr. Hu has Home and organized four ‘Canadian back to Chengdu as a medical mission- also written a book about Dr. Marion friends returning home’ activities.” ary in 1925. When she saw the back- Manly Mother of Myriads of Babies in “As a non-government volunteer ward state of obstetrics in Chengdu, she Chengdu.” team, we feel proud to participate in founded the first school of midwifery in Many Canadian friends said they this great cause of carrying forward Sichuan—Jinyi School of Midwifery in would continue to collect old photos, China-Canada friendship. We are will- Chengdu in 1931. Due to the war, our books and materials and donate them ing to continue to do our part.” family left China in 1945. to the museum to make the museum Fu Yonglin, Vice Mayor of “Most of my memories about Dr. become a window of cultural exchang- Chengdu, said, “We government of- Marion Manly came from talks with es between China and Canada and a ficials often mention the importance of my parents. My parents described her memorial hall with international influ- people-to-people contacts. To me, the as a very skilled doctor, and a lady with ence. old photo project is an example. The gentle disposition and full compassion. David Crook said with emotion: project created by those Canadian and From the figurine she gave to my par- “After seeing so many old photos that Chinese personages who are devoted to ents, it can be seen that she was also record that period of history in Xin- work and full of enthusiasm will exert an artist. My family, living whether in chang, Dayi, I have learned more about huge positive impact on the relation- China or Canada, has always kept this the past and have become more inter- ship between our two countries.” figurine. ested in that period. These photos are Thanks to the unremitting efforts “When I thought of China and older than me. ” made by volunteers of the two coun- saw the figurine, I began to do some re- “When I look at them, I seem to tries, the museum has been founded. search on Dr. Marion Manly’s life and enter another world. I am happy that It carries over a century of friendship found there was a very touching story these old photos have ‘settled down’ between the Chinese and Canadian between her and an old Chinese man in Xinchang and they have made this people. We sincerely congratulate Dayi named Hu Zhongyi living in Chong- beautiful town our second home.” County on building the museum and its qing. Mr. Hu was born in Jinyi School Zhang Biao, chief adviser to the farsighted pioneering work and hope of Midwifery in 1939. Old Photos Project Team and renowned that more entities of this kind that re- “Not long after this baby left the calligrapher, said at the museum flect people-to-people friendship will hospital, he suffered from pneumonia opening ceremony how much he was be set up.

14 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Philippine Local Government Delegation in China

Hu Yang

20-member Philippine local Agovernment delegation headed by Victor A. Yap, Governor of Tarlac, visited China in early September and attended the 2013 China International Cities Cooperation Forum, a sub- forum of the China Jilin Northeast Asia Investment and Trade Expo held in Changchun, the provincial capital. CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin met them on September 4. She recalled her pleasant visit to Manila in 2010, experiencing the warm friendship of the Philippine people. CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin presenting a calligraphy scroll to the delegation “There is a long history of friendship between China and the Philip- During the 1986 visit, his father took do anything practical to promoting the pines and many Filipinos have Chinese him on a trip to Nanan in Fujian Prov- bilateral friendly relations. blood. Although our two countries have ince to discover his ancestral roots. He Mr. Lorenzo Ku, the organizer differences on some issues at present, said, he would attend the 2013 China of the visit, is honorary chairman of I believe they will be resolved through International Cities Cooperation Forum the Association for Philippines-China negotiation and dialogue as long as our during the current visit and would use Understanding, Chairman of the Phil- two countries proceed from the fun- the occasion to enhance cooperation in ippines-China Economic and Trade damental interests of our peoples and trade and investment with China. Council, Honorary Trade Representa- continue to strengthen people-to-people Enrique D. Conjuangco, Jr., Vice tive of the Philippines Department of friendship, especially local government Governor of Tarlac, said China’s rapid Trade and Industry to China, Chairman cooperation.” development was obvious to all and of the Board of Directors of the Textile Governor Yap told Li Xiaolin his there were many things worth learn- Producers Association of the Philip- father had been governor of Tarlac and ing from it. He liked Chinese culture pines, Inc. and Chairman of the Board was very friendly towards China. In and was studying Chinese language. of Directors of the Association of Vol- 1986, at the age of 22, he had visited He had experienced the friendship of unteer Fire Chiefs & Firefighters of the China with his father with the first Phil- the Chinese people for the Philippine Philippines, Inc. ippine parliamentary delegation. The people during the trip. He emphasized He said the CPAFFC was a very visit left beautiful memories. that the Philippines and China should important friendship organization and He, himself, had Chinese blood. live in amity and that he was willing to he would work together with it to con-

15 In Other Lands

tribute to the development of friendly relations between the two countries. CPAFFC Delegation Visits He noted that, three years before, he had invited and received in the Philip- pines a friendship delegation headed Three West African Countries by CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin, who conferred on him the Award for Con- Tang Ruimin tribution to People’s Friendship, which moved him greatly. Despite of his old age, he would seek to make fresh contributions to the continuous development of bilateral relations. This time he had brought young and promising governors, mayors and Assembly members with him so that they could learn more about the country, thus strengthening mutual trust. He was proud to have helped Tar- lac Province and Lipa City establish contact with Henan Province and Fu- shun City, leading to friendship- province/city ties. The delegation attended the 2013 China International Cities Cooperation Daniel Kablan Duncan (L.3), Prime Minister of Cote d’Ivoire, meeting with Feng Zuoku (L.2), leader of the delegation and Vice President of the Forum. Vice Governor Enrique D. Co- CPAFFC juangco, Jr. and Lipa Mayor Maynardo Marciano A. Sabili introduced their lo- nvited by Robert Beugre Trade and Industry, Akwasi Opong- cal areas to the forum. They held that I Mambe, Governor of Abidjan fosu, Minister of Local Government to “transform the pattern of develop- District of Cote d’Ivoire; Yao Bloua and Rural Development, and Hannah ment and promote economic restruc- Agbo, President of the Togo-China Tetteh, Minister of Foreign Affairs turing in order to seek development” Friendship Association, and Kojo and Regional Integration, in Ghana. was an issue confronting all cities of Amoo-Gottfried, President of the It also attended a working meet- the world. Ghana-China Friendship Association, ing presided over by Cote d’Ivoire The successful experiences of a CPAFFC delegation led by Vice Prime Minister Duncan. The Minis- China were worth learning and the fo- President Feng Zuoku paid a goodwill ter of Commerce, Crafts and Small rum had broadened their own vision. visit in early August. and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) They hoped to enhance communica- The delegation called on Dan- Promotion, Minister of Livestock and tion with relevant Chinese departments iel Kablan Duncan, Prime Minister Aquatic Resources, and Minister of and organizations and make contribu- of Cote d’Ivoire, and Robert Mambe, the Environment, Water Resources tions to the continuous development of Governor of Abidjan District. In Togo, and Forests were also present. friendship between the people of China it met Edem Kodjo, former Prime The delegation made an inspec- and the Philippines and the promotion Minister of Togo. It then had meet- tion tour respectively to Port of Lome in of common development. ings with Haruna Iddrisu, Minister of Togo, and the Accra Market in Ghana.

16 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

In Cote d’Ivoire stated their intention to build it into an cropping up in the market’s develop- When attending the Second Dia- emerging country by 2020 and that they ment. logue between Chinese and African needed to learn China’s experience in Now, Accra has joined the Mil- Governors and Mayors in the Chinese development, particularly the economic lennium Cities Initiative. Iddrisu ex- provincial capital of Jinan in June development model of Wenzhou. pressed his belief that with the con- 2013, Abidjan Governor Mambe es- The Cote d’Ivoire side discussed certed efforts of Chinese and Ghanaian tablished contact with the Liaoning with members of the delegation who entrepreneurs, Accra would develop Provincial People’s Association for came from the Wenzhou Chamber of into a more beautiful city. Friendship with Foreign Countries Commerce Beijing Branch about the (LPPAFFC). project for a large-scale comprehensive In Togo Sun Delan, Deputy Secretary trade center in Abidjan as well as the Since the 17th century, Togo, tak- General of the LPPAFFC, specially in- development project of the surrounding ing advantage of its favorable location spected the rice cultivation project in area of Ebrie Lagoon. facing the Atlantic Ocean, has vigor- Abidjan aided by the China Liaoning The delegation was told that in the ously developed its foreign trade. At International Cooperation Corp. The near future, the Governor of Abidjan present, the volume of China-Togo project is making good progress and would send a delegation to Wenzhou on bilateral trade has approached US$ 3.5 has won praise from both Chinese and a study tour in preparation for building billion. Cote d’Ivoire sides. The project’s scale a Chinese commodity wholesale center Kodjo Tsro Fogan Adegnon, is to be expanded in the near future. in the capital. Mayor of Lome, the national capi- Abidjan is Cote d’Ivoire’s gate- tal, and Managing Director of Port of way to the sea and trade port, through In Ghana Lome, presented a key of the city to which 90 percent of the country’s Located on the coast of the Gulf CPAFFC Vice President Feng Zuoku goods are imported and exported. It of Guinea facing the Atlantic Ocean, and conferred upon him the title of was a desolate fishing village border- Accra, the capital, is the African city Honorary Citizen of Lome. He briefed ing on Ebrie Lagoon with a population nearest to zero longitude and latitude. the delegation about the conditions of of less than 20,000 before World War Bright sunshine, gaily-colored flow- the port. II. ers, green trees and blue seas make this Despite its relative small scale After the completion of the 27-ki- tropical coastal city all the more beauti- compared with other West African lometer Vridi Canal linking Ebrie La- ful. ports along the Atlantic coast, Lome is goon and the bay in 1950, Abidjan un- During the delegation’s visit, Ha- a natural harbor with deeper water and derwent rapid urban construction and runa Iddrisu, Minister of Trade and In- has great development potential as the is now a metropolis with a population dustry, said the government welcomed country enjoys political stability and at- of 4.35 million. On entering Abidjan, Chinese private capital to enter Ghana taches great importance to the develop- it seems like a European or American and would accelerate the modernization ment of the port. city. Everywhere there are high build- process of Accra market by adopting a Entrepreneurs in the Chinese dele- ings and large mansions in many de- joint State-private operation. gation all agreed that Port of Lome had signs, cloverleaf intersections, prom- The Ghanaian President has in- a bright prospect and that if Chinese enade parks with lush vegetation and structed the Ministry of Trade and In- private companies wanted anywhere in stores with gorgeous shop widows. dustry, the Ministry of Land and Natu- West Africa, they should take part in The hot climate and plentiful of ral Resources, the Ministry of Local infrastructure construction. rainfall ensure trees and flowers bloom Government and Rural Development The three West African countries all year round. and the Accra Municipal Government visited not only have beautiful scenery During the delegation’s stay, the to establish a joint commission to help and hospitable people, but also huge government of Cote d’Ivoire repeatedly Chinese enterprises solve problems economic growth potential.

17 Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou

Yangzhou, a City Full of Charm in China

Yuan Dan

ocated in central Jiangsu Province As early as 1982, Yangzhou was listed China had prepared for World Heritage L where the Yangtze River and by the State Council as one of the first Site listing. Yangzhou School of Paint- Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal batch of 24 historical cultural cities in ings, Yangzhou gardens, Yangzhou arts meet, Yangzhou is a major city in the recognition of its rich natural, cultural and crafts, and Yangzhou style cuisine, Nanjing-Zhenjiang-Yangzhou City and intangible cultural heritage. The which roughly represent the city’s Belt and a nodal city of the Shanghai ancient city ruins of the Tang Dynasty culture, occupy a unique place in Chi- Economic Circle and Nanjing (618 - 907 CE) and the ancient city of nese history. Huaiyang cuisine is one Metropolitan Circle, both of which are the Ming (1368 - 1644CE) and Qing of China’s four major cuisine styles part of China’s most dynamic Yangtze (1636 - 1911 CE) Dynasties covering and Yangzhou style bonsai is one of River Delta Economic Circle. The city an area of 5.09 km2 have been well pre- five bonsai art schools in the country. has jurisdiction over one county, two served. In the city proper alone there Lacquer ware, jade carving, embroi- county-level cities and three districts are more than 500 historical buildings, dery and other craftsmanship are well and covers a total area of 6,634 km2 more than 500 traditional streets and known all over the world. Currently, with a population of 4.6 million. alleys, and 168 cultural relic protec- Yangzhou Paper-cutting, Woodblock tion units including nine units under Printing, and Yangzhou guqin (a seven- A City with Rich Cultural Heritage national protection and 16 under pro- stringed plucked musical instrument) Yangzhou was founded about vincial protection. The Slender West have been included in the Represen- 2,500 years ago, but the area enjoys a Lake and the historic residential blocks tative List of the Intangible Cultural civilization history of over 6,000 years. have been included in the tentative list Heritage of Humanity. Sixteen projects New Western District of Yangzhou

18 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013 including Yangzhou Opera, Yangzhou green area of 1 million m2 , the city’s line) and the Lianyungang-Huai’an- Ballad, jade carving, lacquer-ware and green coverage rate is now 43.34% and Yangzhou-Zhenjiang High Speed Rail- paper-cuts are listed as national intan- the number of days of excellent urban way will further integrate the city into gible cultural heritage items. There are air quality remains at 320 days or more the economic circle of the Yangtze 94 cultural facilities in Yangzhou in- a year. The city now presents a pleas- River Delta. It now has a State-level cluding Yangzhou Historical Museum ant view of greenery with picturesque export processing zone, a State-level & Yangzhou China Block Printing Mu- gardens. It has won many titles such as economic and technological develop- seum, Yangzhou Arts and Crafts Gal- National Civilized City, National Forest ment zone, a provincial-level high-tech lery, and Museum and Memorial Hall City, China’s Excellent Tourism City, zone and eight provincial-level devel- of Yangzhou School. National Sanitary City, National Garden opment zones. The city has maintained City, National Model City for Environ- sustainable development in its five An Ecological City with mental Protection, National Demonstra- major industries—automobiles, ship- Beautiful Environment tion City for Ecology, China Habitat building, machinery, petrochemicals, Fascinated by Yangzhou’s beauti- Environment Prize and the United Na- new energy and new lighting sources, ful scenery, the literati of different dy- tions Habitat Scroll of Honor. while promoting rapid development of nasties wrote many poems in its praise. its tourism, software, information ser- In recent years, efforts have been made A City with Vibrant vices, modern logistics and other new to promote a conservation culture. Economic Development service sectors, and steady growth of its The city has carried out environmental The construction of major trans- modern and high-efficiency agriculture. management projects such as chan- port links such as the Runyang Yangtze Yangzhou’s foreign economic coopera- neling flowing water into the Slender River Highway Bridge, Yangzhou Rail- tion has been strengthened. World top West Lake and remedial work on the way Station on the Nanjing-Qidong 500 companies including Mercedes- urban section of the Grand Canal, and Railway, Yangzhou Taizhou Airport, Benz from Germany, Colgate from the restored ecological vegetation by build- etc. provide strong support for econom- U.S., Pirelli from Italy, Texas Instru- ing parks including Shugang Xifeng ic development. In the next few years, ments from the U.S. and Philips from Ecological Park and Runyang Forest the completion and opening to traffic of the Netherlands have opened branches Park. With an annual increase of urban the Nanjing-Qidong Railway (double or set up joint ventures. Last year the

19 Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou

city’s GDP reached 295 billion Yuan, an 11.5% increase over the previous year; its fiscal revenue reached 55.451 billion Yuan and public budget revenue 22.5 billion Yuan; its tax revenue was 18.061 billion Yuan, up 16.2%; and its per capita GDP exceeded US$10,000.

An Open and Inclusive City Yangzhou became a flourishing town in the Western Han Dynasty (206 BCE - 24 CE) and a prosperous metropolis in the Tang Dynasty, and reached its heyday in the Qing Dynasty. In the Tang Dynasty, being the largest city in South- east China, one of the four major ports for exchanges with the outside world, angzhou puts friendship zhou has carried out exchange visits and a junction of the Maritime Silk Road Y first while paying attention of young people friendship envoys and the land Silk Road, it enjoyed great to achieving practical results in and student cultural delegations, and prosperity, attracting over 10,000 foreign its contact with its international organized children’s painting com- merchants. During the reigns of Emperor friendship cities. It has carried out petitions respectively with its paired Kangxi, Emperor Yongzheng and Emperor fruitful exchanges and cooperation cities of Kent, Westport and Stanford Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty, Yangzhou in the fields of economy, science of the U.S. became one of the world’s top 10 metro- and technology, culture, sports, and The friendship envoy exchange politan cities with a population of more personnel training, giving impetus program between Yangzhou and than 500,000. Korean scholar Choe Chi- to economic and social development Kent has been conducted for the past won, Arab missionary Puhaddin and of both sides, and accelerating 17 years with the participation of Italian traveler Marco Polo all left their Yangzhou’s transformation into a over 70 teenagers on each side. The footprints. Yangzhou, where ancient cul- city of the world. program received the attention of the ture and modern civilization add radiance Yangzhou first developed two city governments and support of to each other, has cultivated a city spirit friendship-city ties with Karatsu in various social circles. During their of “respecting different cultures and es- Saga Prefecture of Japan in 1982. It visits, the young envoys made exten- teeming virtues, and being open-minded has since established such relations sive contact with the local govern- and inclusive, innovative and creative, with 19 cities in 11 countries in Asia, ment, schools, friendly personages and loving and caring”. It has established Europe, America, and Oceania, and and their peers, contributing to un- friendship-city relations with 19 cities friendly-exchange relations with 29 derstanding and the sustainable de- of 11 countries in Asia, Europe, America cities. velopment of the friendship-city ties. and Oceania, friendly-exchange ties with The middle and primary school 29 foreign cities, and trade and cultural Increasingly Close student exchanges between Yang- contacts with 163 countries and regions. Youth Exchange zhou and Atsugi in Japan involves More than 1,600 foreign-funded enter- Youth exchange is one of the calligraphy and painting, martial prises from 93 countries and regions have major programs in sustaining and de- arts, choral music, sport, etc. The GP their factories or offices in the city. veloping friendship-city ties. Yang- Youth Football Team from Atsugi

20 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Expand Friendship-City Platform to Build Yangzhou as a World City

Deng Qing has visited Yangzhou 27 times since Yangzhou; and the annual Yangzhou to teach in Westport, Connecticut and 1986 with the participation of nearly Jianzhen International Half Marathon in a dozen teachers from Westport have 900 players; Yangzhou Baoying Youth April, has received strong support from come to China. Teachers dispatched by Football Team has also visited Atsugi friendship-cities including Atsugi and Kent and Atsugi to work in Yangzhou many times involving more than 100 Karatsu of Japan, Rimini of Italy and University, Yangzhou Polytechnic Col- young people. Bree of Belgium. Mayors and leaders lege, Jianghai Polytechnic College and In addition, Yangzhou has sent of city council of Atsugi and Karatsu other colleges have raised the level of a dozen middle or primary school art led goodwill or sports delegations to the city’s foreign languages teaching. troupes comprising over 300 students to take part in the event. Since 1998, the personnel train- Japan, the Republic of Korea, Myanmar, Yangzhou has sent delegations on ing programs Yangzhou has carried out Germany, the United States, New Zea- cultural exchange and art performance in cooperation with its twinned cities land and Australia. It has also hosted an tours to its friendship cities in Austra- have achieved good results. So far, it “International Youth Gala” to promote lia, Japan, the ROK, Singapore, Bel- has dispatched nearly 200 people to the understanding and friendship. More gium, Germany and the United States. U.S., Japan, the ROK, Germany, Aus- than 200 youths from Japan, the ROK, Successful events such as Huaiyang tralia, and Singapore for training for the U.S., Germany and Australia joined cuisine demonstration, sampling the one to three months, sometimes half a over a thousand middle school students dishes of the Red Mansion Banquet year, during which the trainees not only in Yangzhou in various activities. recreated in accordance with the Chi- learned advanced management concepts The youth exchanges have also nese classic Dream of the Red Mansion, and work methods, but also laid a solid led to the participation in the friendship puppet shows, storytelling in Yangzhou foundation for future communication. cause of participants’ families, schools, dialect to the accom- Members of the Bree Orchestra of Beilgium perform- and society, thus broadening the scope paniment of stringed ing in the street of Yangzhou in 2007 and increased the depth of contact. instruments, and pedicure demonstra- Fruitful Cultural and tions have also helped Sports Exchanges Yangzhou’s bid to be Up to now, the “Three-Country a world city. Three-City” Friendship Cities Go In- Beginning from vitational Tournament has been suc- 1997, Yangzhou has cessfully held 14 times involving carried out exchanges Yangzhou, Karatsu, and Yosu of the of teachers and per- Republic of Korea; the China-Japan sonnel training with Friendship Wood of Sakura Preserva- its partners. It has sent tion Association has made 25 visits to more than 20 teachers

21 Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou

In-Depth Friendship-City investment. It has sent trade and entre- he Grand Canal of China, an Interaction preneurial delegations overseas to visit T important record of the Chinese The annual “Flowery March” companies and hold business talks, civilization, has been making Yangzhou International Economy and while mayors and other city officials of significant contributions to the Trade Tourism Festival receives enthu- its twinned cities came to attend large- country’s economic development, siastic participation of the international scale activities in the city at the head of national unity, social progress, and friendship cities including Breda of industrial and business delegations. cultural exchange between the north the Netherlands, and Bree of Belgium, Il-Yang Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. and the south. As the only city that Yongin and Gyeongju of the ROK. from Yongin, the ROK, invested more was born and grew along with a Since 2007, Yangzhou has successfully than US$10 million in Gaoyou, Yang- canal in China, Yangzhou gains its hosted the China Yangzhou World Ca- zhou to set up the Yangzhou Ilyang prosperity through this canal and in nal Cities Expo for seven years, estab- Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Sales have return enhances the beauty of the lishing contact with more than 30 canal risen 30% since inception and its prod- canal. People in Yangzhou call the cities in more than 20 countries and re- ucts have been included in China’s canal their mother river with deep gions. Catalogue of Drugs for Basic National affections, treasuring and protecting Through it, Yangzhou has es- Medical Insurance. JBC from Bree it wholeheartedly. Since 2007 in the tablished friendly exchange relations has set up a research and development name of canals, Yangzhou has been with over 20 emerging canal cities like center in Hanjiang District. VITO, a re- inviting other cities in the world to Ismailia on the Suez Canal in Egypt; search institute from Belgium, has co- participate in the China Yangzhou Strasburg on the Midi Canal, France; operated with Yangzhou in building an World Canal Cities Expo, which it Buffalo on the Erie Canal in the U.S.; air quality monitoring network. Com- held for 7 consecutive years. Panama on the Panama Canal; Kingston panies from Italy have set up Marce- on the Rideau Canal, Canada; Wolfs- gaglia China Co., Ltd. and the Italian The Grand Canal Brings burg on the Mittelland Canal, Germany; Industrial Park in Guangling District Prosperity and Cultural Balashikha on the Moscow Canal, Rus- and Baoying County of Yangzhou re- Diversity to Yangzhou sia; and Amsterdam on the Amsterdam spectively. In 486 BCE, the construction Canal in the Netherlands. Yangzhou In 2010, a Shanghai Volkswa- of the Han Canal and Han City be- has strengthened friendly ties with the gen project with an annual output of gan under the orders of Fuchai, the World Canal Conference organization 300,000 passenger cars was launched King of the State of Wu, thus starting and staged the event in 2012. in Yizheng. It has facilitated economic, the history of Chinese canals. Em- In addition, the city has organized trade and administrative communica- peror Yang of the Sui Dynasty (581 - activities to commemorate friendship- tions between Yizheng and Wolfsburg, 618 CE) ordered to dig the Beijing- city twinning anniversaries. These have headquarters of Volkswagen. In 2011, Hangzhou Grand Canal which linked included the Exhibition of China Yang- Echo Point was registered in Yangzhou, five major river systems in China and zhou International Friendship Cities becoming the first Dutch company in joined the Yangtze River at Yang- mounted in Yangzhou, and “Sister-City Yangzhou. zhou. This gave Yangzhou its great Day”, “Yangzhou Day” and “Yangzhou So far, Yangzhou has carried out significance as a hub of both water Week” held in its international friend- economic and trade cooperation and and land transportation in China, a ship cities. exchanges with more than 160 coun- gateway linking the country’s north tries and regions, and more than 30 of and south and a window of commu- Pragmatic Economic Exchange the world’s top 500 companies have set nication with other countries. International friendship-city ties up factories or businesses through the In the early years of the Han have become a major channel for Yang- channel of international friendship and Dynasty (206 BCE - 220 CE), King zhou to attract foreign businesses and friendly-exchange cities. Liu Bi of the State of Wu developed

22 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

A Grand Session with the World in Name of Canals ——Retrospect on China Yangzhou World Canal Cities Expo

Xu Pei industries of coin-casting and salt- center in China. In the early 19th cen- zhou jade-carving, Yangzhou opera, production in Yangzhou, thus attracting tury, Yangzhou ranked the sixth place Yangzhou folk songs, Yangzhou bon- a great number of merchants to the city among the world’s ten biggest cities sai, etc. have been inherited and devel- to do business. In the Tang Dynasty, with a population over 500,000. oped. Yangzhou became the junction of the The geographic advantage has In order to push forward the Marine Silk Road and the Silk Road on made Yangzhou a city where cultures study, protection, inheritance and de- land and the largest city in Southeast of different parts of the country and the velopment of canals and canal cul- China, enjoying the fame of the best world meet. It has developed its unique ture—the common wealth of mankind, commercial city in the country. In the urban culture through inheritance and the Yangzhou municipal government, Qing Dynasty, the booming salt econ- continuous innovation. It is here that in cooperation with PECC-China, omy brought Yangzhou to a period history and reality, material and spiri- has been hosting the China Yangzhou of great prosperity. Taking the advan- tual, human civilization and natural World Canal Cities Expo seven times tages of its administrative power over environment all blend into a harmoni- in succession. Administrators and ex- water transportation of grain to the ous whole. The tangible and intangible perts from domestic and foreign canal capital, salt industry and watercourse cultural heritages, such as Yangzhou cities gathered in Yangzhou to discuss management, Yangzhou became a hub Painting, Yangzhou School, Yangzhou common problems confronting canals of water transportation of grain to the garden, Huaiyang cuisine, Guangling and canal cities’ economic and social capital and the largest salt distribution music, Yangzhou lacquer-ware, Yang- development, expecting to reach con- The experts forum at the 2010 China Yangzhou World Canal Cities Expo

23 Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou

“low carbon economy”, from “enhancing the canal cities by designing” to “the Grand Canal, a living heritage”. “Water ecology, water civilization and renowned cities”, a major topic of the world today, was set as the theme of this year’s expo. Participants from both China and other countries shared their experience in protecting canal cities and their historical and cultural heritage and utilizing canals. By making presentations and submitting written speeches, they discussed from different perspectives the topics such as ways The launching ceremony of the permanent site of China Yangzhou World Ca- and methods of building water ecologi- nal Cities Expo cal civilization cities, water landscape sensus through this communication a communication platform for friend- in modern cities, the protection and platform. The establishment of the ship and cooperation among canal cit- application of water cultural heritage. World Historic and Cultural Canal Cit- ies all over the world, and a festival for Also held during the expo were the ies Cooperation Organization in 2009, promoting Yangzhou to the world. groundbreaking ceremony of a national and the completion of the permanent On September 26, 2013, in the water ecological civilization city pi- site of World Canal Cities Expo in 2011 “Heart of the Grand Canal”—the per- lot project—the construction of urban have further perfected the mechanism manent site of the expo—by the Grand section of the ancient Grand Canal in of the Expo. In 2012, the World Canals Canal, nearly 400 representatives and Yangzhou—and a boat trip along the Conference and the 6th World Canal experts from 5 international organiza- canal, through which the participants Cities Expo were held at the same time tions, 16 foreign canal cities and 35 learned the humanistic, ecological, in Yangzhou, helping upgrade the expo Chinese cities along the Grand Canal exquisite and livable features of Yang- to an international symposium. gathered in Yangzhou to share their zhou. After 6 years of development, the ideas and discuss the mode for pro- expo has become an important brand of The World Canal Cities Expo, tecting, developing and rejuvenating Yangzhou and China for canal culture a Unique Platform to Show ancient canals on the theme of “water development and heritage protection; Yangzhou’s Charm ecology, water civilization and re- and an ideal platform for world canal By holding the World Canal Cit- nowned cities”, which deepened the cities to share experience in protect- ies Expo for the past 7 years, Yangzhou economic cooperation and cultural ex- ing their historical heritage, carrying shows to the world its unique charm changes among world canal cities and on cultural traditions, tapping potential of being a “renowned canal city”. The enabled them to join efforts to create for canal development, and promot- expo has not only attracted mayors and a better future of sustainable developing regional cooperation. In the future, experts of cities along the Grand Ca- ment for world canal cities. Yangzhou will continue its efforts to nal, but also more and more domestic make the World Canal Cities Expo the and foreign canal cities, international The World Canal Cities Expo, an most unique platform for international organizations and canal management Important Forum for Canal Cities exchange to advance common develop- agencies to Yangzhou. It has become a The themes of the seven World ment of world canal cities. Let canal grand cultural gathering with Yangzhou Canal Cities Expo changed with the cities prosper because of canals and ca- characteristics and international vision, times, from “tourism in canal cities” to nals become beautiful because of cities.

24 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013 Jade Buddha Statues Witness Friendship Ties Between Yangzhou and Yangon of Myanmar

Yuan Dan

n Myanmar, Buddhism is widely I practiced. Despite tens of thousands of public temples, there is a shrine for worship in almost every family home. For average income families, they usually have a painted image of Buddha or a wooden Buddha; rich households, however, have gold, silver or jade Buddha statues. Jade statues are the most difficult to make, but their delicate and lustrous texture, are most precious. In Daming Temple in Yangzhou, there are seven jade Buddha statues each of a different size and posture, The Reclining Buddha with serene and solemn looks. All In July 1995, Mayor U Ko Lay was highly valued by the people of seven came from Myanmar. They were headed a delegation to China. Having Yangon, thus cementing the bond. given at different times over the past 15 visited Beijing and Shanghai, the party In the wake of the visit, Nengxiu, years by the city of Yangon to celebrate arrived in Yangzhou and made a formal Abbot of the Temple, as well as a group the success of friendship-city ties with visit to Daming Temple. Given the Bur- of jade masters of Yangzhou went Yangzhou. mese natural affinity for Buddhism, the to Mandalay, the second largest city visit to the thousand-year-old world- in Myanmar known for its jade pro- An Inevitable Bond famous Daming Temple aroused the duction, to select raw material. They The story of the jade Buddha stat- party’s great interest. walked all over the jade mountains in ues of Daming Temple began in the The majestic halls, towering pa- the city and used geomancy to select a 1990s. Yangon, then capital of Myan- godas and the deep-rooted Buddha valuable piece of land. mar, wanted to twin with a Chinese dharma overwhelmed the Mayor. When Dozens of Burmese workers city. It so happened that Chen Baoliu, he learned that the newly built Tower worked and lived in the mountain and Chinese Ambassador to Myanmar at of Buddhist Shrine would enshrine dug out a piece of jade weighing about the time, had just returned from a visit jade Buddha statues, he immediately 400 tons, the largest in the world to to Yangzhou. pledged to present five statues as gifts date. It took half a year and more than He knew well the culture and na- to the Temple and suggested Yangon 20 jade-carvers of the well-known fa- tional conditions of Myanmar and rec- establish friendship-city relations with ther and son carving society of the city ommended Yangzhou to Yangon Mayor Yangzhou. to complete the work of five jade stat- U Ko Lay. Thus, Yangzhou was fortu- Though Yangzhou was not as fa- ues, which were shipped to Yangzhou nate to be listed as a candidate together mous as Beijing and Shanghai in the on April 29, 1996. with Beijing and Shanghai. world, its profound Buddhist culture Of the five statues, one was a re-

25 Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou

economic and trade fields, A Statue for Celebration of 15 Years business groups and entre- of Friendship-City Ties preneurs conduct regular In 2012, on the occasion of the inspection tours seeking 15th anniversary of the establishment business opportunities; in of friendship-city relations, Yangon culture, visits by perfor- Mayor U La Min visited Yangzhou, mance troupes have been when he told Xie Zhengyi, Secretary of exchanged and TV spe- the Yangzhou Municipal Committee of cials filmed; in agricul- the CPC, that his city would again give ture, expert groups have Yangzhou a jade Buddha statue. been sent by Yangzhou On December 25, entrusted by the to give guidance for Yan- Mayor, a delegation of the Yangon City Sitting Buddha Statues gon’s agricultural devel- Development Committee presented a clining Buddha while the other four opment and fine-quality rice seeds have statue to Yangzhou for the third time to adopted a sitting pose. They all bore been provided; in the field of religion, mark 15 years of friendly ties. fine features and calm expression char- high monks exchange constant visits. On the morning of Dec. 26, pre- acteristic of Myanmar. The Reclining In May 2008, when Cyclone Nar- sentation and consecration ceremonies Buddha, 5.7 meters long and weigh- gis hit Yangon, Yangzhou Mayor Wang were held in Daming Temple. Sun ing 18 tons, is the largest of its type in Yanwen sent a message of condolences, Yongru, Vice Chairman of the Standing China; the four sitting Buddha statues, the Yangzhou Municipal Government Committee of the Yangzhou Municipal all 1.75 meters high and weighing four donated 100,000 RMB, and Daming People’s Congress, accepted the seated tons each, are very rare in China. Temple also donated 10,000 RMB. Sakyamuni Buddha statue carved out Later, a big hall was built special- The fruitful exchanges and co- of white marble that was consecrated ly to house the Reclining Buddha, and operation have added new contents to by Abbot Nengxiu before all the monks the four sitting Buddha statues were the traditional “paukphaw” friendship in the Temple. This Buddha statue with enshrined in the Tower of Buddhist between China and Myanmar. In May delicate texture and masterful art work Shrine. 2000, Mayor U Ko Lay made a key- is 2.8 meters high and weighs 10.8 To express gratitude for the pro- note speech at the International Friend- tons. It is now placed between the Hall found friendship of the Yangon people, ship Cities Conference held in Beijing, of Reclining Buddha and the Tower of Yangzhou gave in return a pleasure introducing the friendly exchanges be- Buddhist Shrine. boat named “Yangzhou” and an octag- tween Yangon and Yangzhou. Now, there are seven jade Bud- onal pavilion. In July 1997, Mayor U In 2004, Aung Thein Lynn be- dha statues in Daming Temple. In Ko Lay once again led a delegation to came Mayor of Yangon. He visited return, Yangzhou has given 300 mag- Yangzhou and signed an agreement on Yangzhou in May of the same year and nolia grandiflora to Yangon that now friendly exchanges. He promised that the following year to continue bilateral grow luxuriantly in the city’s central every future mayor of Yangon would exchanges. In 2005, Yangon once again park as an evergreen symbol of friend- give a jade Buddha statue to Yangzhou. presented Yangzhou with a jade Bud- ship. dha statue — one that had been stand- The friendly contacts between A Witness to In-Depth Exchanges ing in the Government Square of Yan- Yangzhou and Yangon will continue Frequent contacts between Yang- gon. under the witness of the jade Buddha zhou and Yangon have been carried It is the first and the only giant statues, and the profound friendly sen- out ever since. On the government standing Buddha statue in Yangzhou timent the people of the two cities cher- level, frequent exchanges of visits have and is now placed in the compound of ish for each other will grow under their helped increase the friendship; in the the Jianzhen School of Buddhism. joint care.

26 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Mr. Jaak Gabriels’ China Ties

Zhao Lan

r. Jaak Gabriels, Mayor of Bree in nior member of the Belgian Parliament M Belgium, arrived in Kunshan of and the Flemish Parliament, and once Jiangsu Province on March 28, 2012 to served as minister of agriculture and attend the China International Imported small enterprises and Flemish minister Products Expo. He was accompanied of economy, foreign policy and trade by the staff of the Foreign Affairs and housing. Office of the Yangzhou Municipal Because of his outstanding per- Government, a city that has friendship- formance, he was granted the title of city relations with Bree. “Minister of State for life” by the King He looked a bit tired. In less than and the Federal Government of Bel- a week, he had visited Beijing, Nan- gium. jing and Yangzhou, and met several old friends including former Chinese Ties with Yangzhou Ambassador to Belgium Zhang Qiyue, Mr. Jaak Gabriels Jaak Gabriels also showed he had made a formal call on Aigo, a well- the occasion. It was most touching and international vision. In 1999, he headed known company, in a bid to persuade it impressive to see the profound feelings a 25-member Bree Municipal Govern- to conduct a study tour of his city, gave he cherished for Yangzhou. ment and trade delegation to visit Yang- exclusive interviews, putting forward Indeed, Mr. Gabriels has every zhou for the first time, during which he suggestions for building Yangzhou into reason to be proud. The contact be- held an exhibition of Bree products and a world famous city. tween the two friendship cities has not signed with Yangzhou Mayor Su Zequn To someone who was approach- only reached unprecedented heights, a MOU on establishment of friendly ing 70, such arrangements were indeed but also ensured the economic and cul- exchange relations. a bit too tight. But the work was far tural cooperation he initiated between He made great efforts to develop from finished. After sharing a bottle of Limburg and Jiangsu fruitful. At the ties. From 2005, he led a delegation to white wine with his fellow delegates Expo, Limburg Province organized an visit Yangzhou at least once a year. Un- to refresh himself, he appeared in high economic delegation and set up an ex- der his influence, Vice Mayor Marie- spirit at the meeting with provincial hibition stall to promote its advanced Jeanne Raedschelders-Savelkoul, Sec- leaders that evening together with Her- products and technology. retary General Stefan Goclon, Director man Reynders, Governor of Limburg. General of the Finance Bureau Jean At the Expo’s opening ceremony A Senior Politician Gielen and adviser to the Mayor Guy the next day, wearing a T-shirt commis- Jaak Gabriels had been elected Hallet gave full support to the econom- sioned by the Expo, along with a big mayor of Bree six times, serving for 35 ic and cultural exchanges. smile, he handed out 1,000 color leaf- years until retirement in 2012 as one Whenever a Yangzhou delegation lets on the friendly exchanges between of the longest serving mayors in Bel- visited Belgium, Mayor Gabriels would Bree and Yangzhou specially made for gium. What’s more, he was also a se- personally accompany it on its visit. In

27 Between Friendship Cities • Yangzhou

2005, when Wang Jun, Deputy Secre- In May 2005, at the opening cere- features drew over 2,000 visitors from tary of the Yangzhou Municipal Com- mony of “The Embassy”, Zhang Qiyue, Belgium as well as from its neighbor- mittee of the CPC, led a delegation to Chinese Ambassador to Belgium, spoke ing countries like Germany and the Belgium, the Mayor not only organized highly of this new way of publicity and Netherlands. a grand welcoming ceremony in the economic and cultural promotion, say- In 2007, Mayor Gabriels headed a City Hall, but also arranged a meeting ing it had boosted the friendly relations 110-member delegation of government with Prime Minister Guy Verhofstadt between China and Belgium and given officials, businesspeople and an art and with the Chairman of the China great support to her work. troupe to visit Yangzhou for a colorful Committee of the European Commis- Bree Week much enjoyed by citizens. sion. Build a Cultural and Art Bridge The activities included Belgian food In 2006, when the two cities Under the initiation of Mayor culture demonstrated by Belgian chefs, signed the agreement on the establish- Gabriels, a “Yangzhou Week” and a on-the-spot making of the world-fa- ment of friendship-city relations, he “Bree Week” were held in the two cit- mous Belgian chocolate, a dance show invited the Belgian Royal Air Force to ies respectively in 2006 and 2007. The by young people, a special opera show, give an aerobatics display. He also at- activities included cultural and art per- and the beautiful singing of young vo- tended the activity held by the Belgian formances, culinary exchanges, arts and calist Martine Reyners. Ministry of Foreign Affairs celebrating crafts exhibitions, economic and trade Belgian food and delicacies avail- the 30th anniversary of diplomatic rela- inspection tours, tourism promotion, etc. able in the streets gave local people the tions between Belgium and China. During the Yangzhou Week, chefs opportunity to try Belgian snacks while To let more people know about from the city reproduced the dishes listening to foreign music outside su- Yangzhou, he designated one meeting and delicacies described in the Chinese permarkets. The get-together between room in the City Hall, named it “Bree- classic novel Dream of Red Mansion, hundreds of Yangzhou youth and their Yangzhou Embassy” and appointed folk artists put on puppet shows and Belgian peers certainly forged great Jean Gielen “Ambassador to Yang- tanci (storytelling in Yangzhou dia- friendship between them. zhou”. On display are articles relating lect to the accompaniment of stringed Whether it was economic ex- to bilateral exchanges, gifts from Yang- instruments), showing the long and change, culinary demonstration or zhou, reference material and photos, rich cultural tradition of the city. Yang- cultural performance, Mayor Gabriels recording the events and stories in the zhou’s arts and crafts, pedicure and would be on hand to provide guidance contact between the two cities. photo exhibitions distinctive of local and offer encouragement to the performers. His close ties with people moved Culinary exchange at the “Bree Week” held in Yangzhou in 2006 everyone. On occasions, we were surprised to see the Mayor singing heartily with the singers and could not help ad- mire his artistic accomplishment.

Actively Promotes Economic Cooperation Economic cooperation is the foundation of exchanges between friendship cities. In 2007, Yangzhou held its first economic promotion in Brussels. With the help of Bree, over 100 personages from the Belgian political, economic and press circles attended the activity.

28 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

JBC, the largest chain of clothing- the Government of Limburg for his out- Later, all participants were in- stores in Belgium and the third largest standing leadership and organizational vited to attend the opening ceremony in Europe, has more than 100 stores ability and rich diplomatic experience. of “Limburg Week” in the Belgium- across the region. In 2006, Jan Baptiste He used his personal influence to ac- EU Pavilion at the World Expo Shang- Claes, President of JBC, came to Yang- tively promote the establishment of hai. Deputy Governor Zhang Weiguo zhou with Mayor Gabriels on a study friendship-province relations between praised Yangzhou for initiating a new tour. He became so fond of the city that Jiangsu and Limburg and helped the model of friendship-city exchanges at he decided to set up a China Procure- twinning of five pairs of friendship cit- the provincial, municipal and district ment Center there. ies — Nanjing and Hasselt, Pingjiang levels with foreign countries. In three years, the company’s District of Suzhou and Genk, Chang- Jaak Gabriels cherishes profound procurement in China rose from 10% zhou and Lommel, Guangling District feelings for China and treats friends to 30% of its total global procurement of Yangzhou and Maaseik, Hanjiang sincerely. Having visited Yangzhou with an annual value of US$40 million. District of Yangzhou and Harmont many times, he had gained a deeper un- JBC attached importance to supporting Achel. derstanding of China and its culture. In local economic development, making He paid formal calls on the gov- 2007 and 2008, when some anti-China an effort to find suppliers in Yangzhou ernments of Chinese city or district to activities in support of “Tibetan Inde- and neighboring cities. It now has regu- explain his vision of starting a compre- pendence” and sabotaging the Olympic lar cooperation partners such as Botai hensive provincial-level cooperation torch relay took place, he refuted the Group and HuBao Group, the former through friendship-city ties. His sug- slander on China and publicized its de- honored as a “best supplier”. gestion received a positive response velopment at every opportunity. VITO NV is a Belgian research from all sides. On May 14, 2010, Zhang Jaak Gabriels retired from his institute engaged in the application of Weiguo, Deputy Governor of Jiangsu, mayoral post in 2012, but he is still environmental protection technology. and Herman Reynders, Governor of concerned with China. Invited by Gov- In 2005, encouraged by Mayor Gabri- Limburg, signed the MOU for friend- ernor Reynders, he now serves as Lim- els, a letter of intent on cooperation in ship and cooperative ties and witnessed burg Ambassador to China and helps environmental protection was signed the signing of five MOU’s between cit- the province to carry out the exchange with Yangzhou. It was the first time ies of the two provinces in Nanjing. and cooperation with China. Yangzhou received a foreign govern- Mayor Jaak Gabriels and his party in Yangzhou ment grant. The cooperation project was carried out between 2006 and 2008. The two cities respectively invested 250,000 euros for the introduction of EU-stan- dard Aurora technology for monitoring and forecasting air quality in Yangzhou. It helped Yangzhou analyze its air pol- lution, formulate environmental protection policies, draw urban development plan and train qualified personnel.

Initiate New Model of Friendly Exchanges In 2009, Mayor Gabriels was appointed Shanghai Expo Ambassador by

29 Friendship Activities CRFA’s New Leadership Elected

Our Staff Reporter

he China-Romania Friendship despite the vicissitudes of the interna- tion would continue to expand channels T Association (CRFA) held a council tional and Romania’s domestic political and enrich contents of exchange with meeting in the Peace Palace of the situation. It can be said that Romania is Romania, and promote local communi- CPAFFC in Beijing on August 29. It an all-weather friend of China.” cations to make greater contributions to heard the work report delivered by Reviewing the work in the past the further growth of bilateral relations, CRFA President Su Guang, adopted ten years, the outgoing President said he said. the Statutes of the China-Romania the CRFA had made unremitting efforts The meeting elected a new CRFA Friendship Association, and elected a to consolidate and develop friendship leadership with Liu Guchang, Chair- new leadership and invited advisers by carrying out exchanges of person- man of China Foundation for Interna- and council members. nel and delegations to enhance mutual tional Studies and former Vice Foreign President Su Guang said: “The understanding and by building multi- Minister, as president; Wang Tieshan friendship between China and Romania level platforms to serve cooperation and executive vice president; Lin Xuerong, dates back to ancient times. The friendly economic development between the two Ding Chao, Liu Yanfeng and Luo relations between the two countries re- countries. Dongquan vice presidents; and Kang main unchanged and grows ever strong In the next five years, the Associa- Jingyuan as secretary general.

SPF Donates a School Bus to Basa Middle School in Yunnan

Xing Shuhua

t a CPAFFC ceremony on August went on an inspection tour of Basa a music classroom in the teaching com- A30, Secours Populaire Francais Middle School at the invitation of the plex of Naqin Primary School of Beidou (SPF) and the Air France Foundation CPAFFC, leading to the decision to Township, Taishan City, Guangdong donated 20,000 euros to Basa Middle provide funds for a school bus. Despite Province. School of Hekou County, Yunnan an economic downturn in France, SPF This demonstrates SPF’s interna- Province to buy a school bus. SPF stuck to its commitment; overcoming tional humanitarianism and helps the President Julien Laupretre, Li Jianping, difficulties, it raised enough money for cause of friendship between the people Vice President of the CPAFFC, one bus and promised to donate another of China and France. Zhou Hong, President of the Yunnan to the school later. At the ceremony, both sides Provincial People’s Association for Since 2007, SPF, through the pledged to use the 50th anniversary of Friendship with Foreign Countries, were CPAFFC, has made donations to proj- the establishment of diplomatic rela- among those attending the ceremony. ects including construction of Friend- tions in 2014 to further cooperate. SPF Li Jianping said the donation again ship Water Cellars in Zhaona Village of President Laupretre informed the Chi- showed the deep friendship for the Chi- Tianshui City, Gansu Province; emer- nese side of a large-scale activity “World nese people held by the French people gency aid to the Wenchuan earthquake- Children are one family” it would orga- and SPF, and the cooperation between hit area in Sichuan Province; a multi- nize in 2015 for its 70th anniversary and the CPAFFC and SPF. media library in Mengjia School of hoped the CPAFFC would participate. In May 2012, a SPF delegation Deyang City in Sichuan Province; and Li Jianping gave a positive response.

30 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Carry Forward the Spirit of The Flying Tigers

Chuan You

eptember 6, 2013 marked the 120th Force, Major General of the US Army war. Over the years, SIFA has been S anniversary of the birth of General 14th Air Force, Chief of Staff of the working to promote mutual understand- Claire Lee Chennault. A meeting was China Air Force and Commander of the ing and friendly exchanges between held in Chengdu the following day to China-U.S. Joint Air Force. the people of China and the U.S. It commemorate his contribution to the The American team was pub- received General Chennault’s widow, Chinese People’s War of Resistance licly known as the “Flying Tigers”. In Mrs. Anna Chan Chennault, when she Against Japanese Aggression. 1942, he took the risk to open the air visited Sichuan, and called on her in It was sponsored by the Si- route known as “The Hump” in order the U.S. chuan Provincial People’s Association to transport strategic materials from It invited Mr. Groper, a veteran for Friendship with Foreign Countries southern Asian bases over the moun- of the Flying Tigers, to visit Chengdu (SIFA) and co-hosted by the tains to China. The U.S. lost over 1,500 on the occasion of commemorating the Comprehensive Science Research aircraft and nearly 3,000 aircrew due 60th anniversary of the victory of the Center of Sichuan University and the to the complex terrain, harsh weather Chinese People’s War of Resistance Claire Lee Chennault Research Institute and Japanese attacks. The heroic spirit Against Japanese Aggression and the of Donghua Comprehensive Science of General Chennault and his Flying World Anti-Fascist War. He donated Academy of Sichuan Province. A SIFA Tigers was widely popularized among Flying Tigers’ uniforms and other items representative and Mr. Kelly Busby, both the Chinese and the American to the Jianchuan Museum, six items of Political Unit Chief and representative people. which were classified as grade one cul- of the American Consulate General In his speech, the SIFA represen- tural relics by the State Bureau of Cul- in Chengdu, addressed the meeting tative said Sichuan was China’s stra- tural Relics. attended by experts, scholars and tegic rear against the Japanese aggres- In 2008 and 2011, the SIFA co- personages from various social circles. sion, where the Flying Tigers fought hosted activities in commemoration of General Chennault was a great many bloody battles. In order to fight General Chennault with relevant orga- friend of the Chinese people. Upon the against the Japanese invaders, the U.S. nizations of Chengdu, and, in 2012, it outbreak of the anti-Japanese war. As Air Force established a number of bas- received the 98-year-old Hump pilot chief adviser to the Chinese air force, es outside Chengdu. The local people Peter Goutier and more than 10 rela- he participated in the battles of Shang- actively participated in the construction tives and descendants of members of hai, Nanjing and Wuhan together with of runways under extremely hard con- the Flying Tigers. American, Chinese and Soviet pilots. ditions and forged a profound friend- U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein The American Volunteer Group ship with the American pilots. The U.S. sent a letter, on behalf of the U.S. Sen- (AVG) of the China Air Force was bombers that took off from Chengdu ate and the State of California, to ex- founded on August 1, 1941. Chen- delivered a heavy blow to the arrogant press her gratitude to the Sichuan peo- nault became its leader with the rank of Japanese aggressors. ple for their warm hospitality and their colonel. Later, he served as Air Com- The renowned Flying Tigers gave praise of the heroic deeds of the Flying modore of the Task Team of U.S. Air strong support to Chinese people’s just Tigers.

31 Friendship Activities

In his speech, Consul Busby he Fourth International Children’s nology Museum and the Grand Can- thanked the SIFA for organizing this T Art Festival of Xinjiang, hosted yon Scenic Spot in Nanshan Moun- event. He quoted the former U.S. Presi- by the Xinjiang People’s Association tain. dent George Bush’s words that the tough for Friendship with Foreign Countries The organizing committee resistance of the Flying Tigers and their (XPAFFC) was held in Urumqi, the hosted a variety show at the closing courageous fight for freedom had left regional capital, from July 20 to 26. ceremony on the afternoon of July a legendary chapter in the U.S. mili- Eighteen children’s art troupes 23, when both Vice Chairman Erken tary history. They had won everlasting comprising more than 260 students Tunijaz of the Autonomous Regional respect from the American people and from eight countries took part, includ- Government and CPAFFC Vice Presi- their sacrifices would never be forgotten. ing nine foreign troupes (120 students) dent Xie Yuan delivered speeches. It was because of the participation from Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Vice Chairman Erken said the of General Chennault, the Flying Tigers Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, India and International Children’s Art Festival and many other courageous Chinese Mongolia, and nine Chinese troupes in Xinjiang took advantage of the re- and American soldiers that victory was (140 students) from Urumqi, Kashgar, gion’s geographical closeness to many achieved. Chennault’s experience told Aksu, Tacheng, and Ili, Changji and countries to enhance exchanges and people that cooperation between the Bayingolin prefectures. understanding, improve the popularity U.S., China, and other friendly nations The festival started on the morn- of Xinjiang, and promote the region’s could overcome huge challenges. ing of July 21. In his speech at the people-to-people exchanges and co- Mrs. Nell Calloway, granddaugh- opening ceremony, Muzapar Mijit, operation with the outside world with ter of General Chennault and Curator Head of the Foreign Affairs Office of beautiful songs and dances. of the Memorial Museum of General the Government of Xinjiang Uighur He hoped that more platforms Claire Lee Chennault in the U.S., sent Autonomous Region and President would be built to show the achieve- a message to the meeting to express of the XPAFFC, said the festival was ments and the spirit of Xinjiang and her thanks, saying that her grandfather a cultural event for both Chinese and contribute to establishing a peaceful would have felt deeply gratified that the foreign young people. By organizing and friendly international environ- Chinese people did not forget his dedi- various activities, the Autonomous ment for the region’s vigorous devel- cation to the great cause, and that it was Regional Government aimed to opment and long-term stability. his sincere wish to see this historic mo- strengthen exchanges, enhance Vice President Xie Yuan stressed: ment become a foundation for the build- mutual understanding and friendship, “Lasting friendship between different ing of a bright future between China and and promote Xinjiang’s external nations lies in people-to-people com- America. exchanges and cooperation. He hoped munication and youth exchanges. The participants, including profes- the participants would create a song The Xinjiang International Children’s sors and scholars from Sichuan Univer- of peace and friendship with passion Art Festival has set up a bridge of sity, Chengdu Normal College and Si- and idealism. cultural communication to enhance chuan Media College, as well as person- In the weeklong festival, the understanding and friendship be- ages from various social circles, recalled troupes gave four performances and tween the young people of different the legendary experience of General carried out exchange activities such countries.” Chennault and spoke highly of the he- as talent shows in painting, calligra- He hoped the seeds of friendship roic spirit and devotion of the Flying Ti- phy, paper cutting, playing musical would foster the cause of people-to- gers. They all agreed that people should instruments and making handicrafts. people friendship for generations. The remember the history and work hard to They attended bonfire evening parties, CPAFFC would continue to support create a bright future for friendship and played games and attended lectures. this activity and make the festival cooperation between the people of China They made a tour of Urumqi, and vis- even better. and the U.S. ited the Xinjiang Science and Tech- Camilova Sidojatto, Leader of

32 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Fourth China Xinjiang International Children’s Art Festival Promotes Friendship

Zhang Jiahu the No.3 Children’s Conservatory Del- friends from other countries including had made many friends coming from egation of Tajikistan, said they had par- India and Mongolia. I communicated different countries. They played games ticipated in the festival on three consec- with them in English and gestures. I after the performance. utive occasions, and she considered it had great fun with them despite lan- One Chinese girl said: “We taught very meaningful in providing children guage barriers. ” them to play hide and seek while they with opportunities to broaden their ho- A child from India joyfully told taught us games they played in their rizons and make good friends through reporters it was his first time to take countries. Indians spoke English with exchanges and conversations about cul- part in the festival, during which he us and we translated it into Uighur lan- ture and lifestyles. not only performed on stage, watched guage for children from Kyrgyzstan, Dereyghere Corrina, a little per- brilliant performances by other foreign who then translated it into Russian for former from the “Berdsk Girl” Del- children, while also studying Chinese our Tajikistan peers. Everyone had a egation of Berdsk Novosibirsk Oblast, calligraphy and paper-cut making, good time despite the difficulties we Russia, said, “This is my first visit greatly stimulating his interest and encountered in our languages.” to China. It is so beautiful here and learning ability. The organizing committee pre- there are lots of people in the streets. In the sitting room for the Del- sented performance certificates and Children from Xinjiang are especially egation of the Secondary Art School souvenirs to leaders and student repre- warm and hospitable, always talking Attached to Xinjiang Arts Institute, I sentatives of the troupes at the closing and playing with us. I also made a few learned that girls from the delegation ceremony. A dance item performed by a Russian troupe

33 Friendship Activities

International Tour of Exhibition of Chinese Characters Launched at the Opening Ceremony of Its Capital Show

Our Staff Reporter

he International Tour of the clerical script and regular script. It fully “The Exhibition of Chinese Char- T Exhibition of Chinese Characters, revealed the essence of Chinese writ- acters will be held in countries across jointly sponsored by the CPAFFC, the ing culture and showed the splendor the world in the next three years. The Henan Provincial People’s Association of China’s ancient civilization and the CPAFFC will conduct cross-cultural for Friendship with Foreign Countries, wisdom of humanity. exchanges centering round the exhibi- the Anyang Municipal Government The exhibition aims to carry out tion and organize activities including and the National Museum of Chinese cultural and art exchanges with coun- forums on writing and multi-culture, Writing, was launched in the Capital tries of the world through Chinese so as to provide a new vision for those Museum of China on August 13. characters and introduce to the people elsewhere who love and follow with CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin and of various countries the ancient but still interest Chinese culture and the art of Vice President Xie Yuan, Anyang May- flourishing Chinese culture. Its “Capital Chinese characters.” or Ma Linqing, leading members of rel- Show” in the Capital Museum of China At the launching ceremony, the evant department of Henan Province, was planned to last for a month, before Uzbekistan Embassy and the CPAFFC joined over 100 representatives from moving on in Canada, Uzbekistan, Ne- signed a letter of intent on cooperation China’s cultural and academic circles, pal and other countries. in the exhibition’s international tour. ambassadors of Azerbaijan, Bangla- In his speech at the ceremony, Ambassador Daniyar Kurbanov said desh, Mauritius, Peru and Uzbekistan, CPAFFC Vice President Xie Yuan said, the exhibition, showing the unique and and diplomats from the embassies of “The CPAFFC, since its inception 59 ancient civilization of China, was very the United States, Canada, France, the years ago, has been active in carrying appealing. In his country, more and Republic of Korea, the Philippines, out friendly cooperation and exchanges more people had become interested in Singapore, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and Ne- with other countries to promote peace China. He believed that the exhibition pal, to attend the opening ceremony. and development in the world. At pres- would be well received when mounted CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin declared ent, with the development of economic in his country. the exhibition open and cut the ribbon, globalization and re- A corner of the exhibition hall and visited the exhibition together with gional integration and the diplomatic envoys. increasingly frequent The exhibition consists of three cultural exchanges parts — “Origin and Evolution”, “Re- between China and search and Dissemination” and “Art other countries, peo- and Innovation”. Among more than ple around the world 120 exhibits were such precious cultur- are showing strong al relics as oracle bones, bronze ware, interest in the ancient pottery, bamboo slips, coins, jade and Chinese civilization, paper, showing the evolution of Chi- resulting in the surge nese characters from oracle bone script of enthusiasm for and bronze script to small seal script, learning Chinese.”

34 In Other Lands

Visit to ROK by Chinese Young Envoys of Friendship

Zhou Xiaodan

t the invitation of the the country’s development and AKorea Foundation and the progress local governments Korea-China Friendship had achieved by exploiting Association, a 200-member their advantages. Chinese delegation of young In Gangnam District of envoys of friendship, headed Seoul, the Chinese delegation by Mr. Liu Xinsheng, Adviser was deeply impressed by the to the China-Korea (ROK) remarkable changes in the for- Friendship Association and mer villages. In Pyeongchang former Chinese Ambassador County of Gangwon Province, to Brunei, paid a visit to the the delegation supported Ko- Republic of Korea from June rea’s determination to host the Chinese youth performing wushu (martial arts) 10 to 18. Members included 2018 Winter Olympiad. young civil servants and university the delegation that Korea highly valued In Pohang City, the delegation students from Beijing, Hebei, Henan, its cultural tradition, rich in content and highly appreciated the corporate de- Hubei, Hunan, Guangxi, Chongqing, treasured by succeeding generations. velopment concept of “Resources are Sichuan, Xinjiang and Guizhou. In Kongju city, Chinese univer- limited, but creativity is unlimited”. sity students were divided into groups In Cheongju City, the delegation mar- Experience Korea of three or five people and stayed with veled at the miracles produced by LG’s Korea is a country where tradition local families. Some students put on technologies for healthy life. In Jeju and modernity coexist and restraint and Korean national costumes and learned Province, the delegation admired this openness mingle. The Chinese delega- traditional etiquette; some played waist charming island of “Oriental Hawaii”. tion witnessed the bustling streets of drums at family parties; some shopped Delegates from local governments fashion, the convenience offered by the at supermarkets with their “Korean in China showed their willingness to state-of-the-art public infrastructure, the moms” and learned to cook local learn from the advanced experience of modest people with good manners and dishes. The Chinese students quickly Korea and further promote exchanges the stability and harmony of society. formed deep friendship with the host and cooperation between localities of During the delegation’s visit to families and all were reluctant to part. the two countries. the Academy of Korean Studies, Dr. Xu Zhi, Director of the Confucius Institute Learn from Korea for Carry forward at Inchon National University and Ms. Common Development China-Korea Friendship Li Mei, postgraduate student majoring By visiting museums and meet- Senior officials from the Korean in history of art, made speeches about ing with local government officials, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and educa- “power of Korean culture”. They told Chinese delegation learned more about tional authorities met the delegation.

35 In Other Lands

Mr. Park Joon-yong, Director aspiration for the future and shouldered Geun-hye would surely be a success. General of the Northeast Asian Affairs the arduous task of safeguarding peace Ambassador Liu Xinsheng em- Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Af- and stability in Asia. He expected the phasized that the endeavor to develop fairs, said Korea would provide more Chinese delegation would contribute China-Korea friendship would never convenience for bilateral personnel more to enhancing Korea-China friend- end. He encouraged the youth in China exchanges and become one of China’s ship, and common progress in harmony. and Korea to infuse positive energy neighbors with the closest ties in the Ambassador Liu Xinsheng, head into carrying forward China-Korea tra- next few decades. Mr. Chung Chong- of Chinese delegation, said there was ditional friendship and making greater wook, former Korean Ambassador to an old Chinese saying: “A good neigh- success for bilateral relations. China, pointed out that the Chinese bor is better than distant relatives”. In The theme for this visit to ROK dream was also the dream of Koreans the short period of 21 years since China was “2013 Journey to Korea for Peo- and hoped that the youth of the two and Korea established diplomatic rela- ple-to-People and Cultural Exchanges”. countries would work hand in hand to tions, great progress had been made. The Chinese delegates summarized realize the same envisioned future. Three reasons were applied here. their visit by saying that Korea was a Mr. Chung Chung-kil, President First, China and Korea were close geo- country both familiar and strange to of the Academy of Korean Studies, ex- graphically. The two countries shared them as they had only learned about it pressed the idea that Korea and China much common ground in cultural tradi- from Korean TV series, Korean food were good neighbors throughout history tions and complemented with each other and media reports, which were superfi- with common social values, so the two economically. Second, China and Korea cial. countries should further their cooperation both held that all countries, big or small, This visit provided an opportunity for the recovery of the world economy. were equal. Third, China and Korea to experience, learn and forge friendly Mr. Han Suk-jung, Vice President agreed to solve disputes through dia- relations. Delegates broadened their of Dong-A University, told Chinese logues. The Chinese side was fully con- horizon, now knew more about the students that Premier Zhou Enlai advo- fident in a better future of bilateral rela- country and its people, and felt more cated to “study for the rise of China”. tions and believed that the forthcoming obliged to further develop the cause of Young people in China cherished great visit to China by Korean President Park China-Korea friendship. The delegation with Shin Yeon-hee, head of Gangnam District of Seoul

36 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Cultivate Successors to Sino-Japanese Friendship in the 21st Century

Chuan You

nvited by Cel Corporation of Japan, I the Sichuan Provincial People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (SIFA) sent a delegation consisting of students and SIFA staff to Tokyo to take part in the 2013 Kizuna Koshien Baseball Exchange from August 2 to 5. The four students in the delegation came from Beichuan and Wenchuan counties, the worst-hit areas in the catastrophic earthquake that shook Sichuan Province on May 12, 2008, all losing either one or both parents. This was the third time this event has been held. Since 2011, after the Great Eastern Japan earthquake on March 11, Cel Corporation began orga- A Japanese coach giving some coaching tips to the Chinese students nizing such activities between the two countries. This time by inviting stu- This year’s event, with a four-leaf uan students, and specially presented dents from Sichuan earthquake-stricken clover symbolizing ties and renewal as a set of gloves to the Beichuan Middle area, it hoped to build a platform for its logo, was funded by over 500 com- School Baseball Team. Having changed Japan-China youth friendly exchange panies; all employees of Cel Corpora- into their new outfit, the two players based on the idea of “for children, for tion, some 200 in total, enthusiastically from Beichuan headed for the baseball the future and generation after genera- plunged into the organizational and co- diamond. The two students from Wen- tion”. ordination work, including transporta- chuan who had never played baseball Its desire is to enhance mutual tion of players and equipment. before, learned earnestly how to pitch understanding between the youth in Eight teams from schools in the with the help of a Japanese coach. Ma- the quake-hit areas of both countries, Japanese earthquake-affected area and sayoshi Nishimoto, Cel’s Senior Man- and help them draw courage from each four teams from schools in Tokyo, to- aging Director, talked with the players other through their similar experiences taling more than 400 people, took part. from Beichuan, inquiring about their and build up their confidence to over- The Kizuna Koshien Organiz- respective positions in the team and come difficulties so that they can grow ing Committee gave a complete set of discussed playing skills with them. On up healthily and play their part in re- baseball equipment including a bat, learning that they would go to Suining construction of the disaster areas in the batting helmet, a cap, mitt, sports out- City to take part in China’s National future. fit and shoes to each of the four Sich- Youth Baseball Championship as soon

37 In Other Lands as they returned home, he arranged new look and share experiences of their their visit. for the coach of Japan’s championship growth with young baseball players They were surprised to discover team to give them some coaching tips. there. that those who had coached them in the The four Chinese students pitched Long Xin, a student from Wen- baseball field were actually Cel staff. together to start the event. Their syn- chuan, presented to the Kizuna Ko- They were deeply impressed by the fact chronized pitching brought waves of shien Organizing Committee his oil that Japanese people who had a strong cheers and greetings of “ni hao” from painting implying peace and friendship sense of responsibility at work also the Japanese students present. Then, between the people of China and Japan, pursued their hobbies untiringly in their Fukushima Baseball Team from the which brought the evening party to a spare time. earthquake area presented baseballs to climax. Several Japanese companies made the Chinese players as souvenirs. Mr. Nishimoto said that, with the great efforts to ensure the success of Masatsugu Jinno, Chairman of successful conclusion of the latest Ki- the delegation’s visit to Japan. Yuna Cel Corporation, attended the evening zuna Koshien Baseball Exchange, Cel Sato, General Manager of Cel China, get-together. He chatted cordially with Corporation was determined to hold had flown from Shanghai to Tokyo to the Sichuan students, had pictures tak- this activity for 10 consecutive years. accompany the delegation throughout en with them and encouraged them to He expressed warm welcome for youth its visit. He had to leave for Kyoto on make contributions to the reconstruc- baseball teams from Sichuan to partici- business after the delegation’s call on tion and development of their home- pate in future activities. the Cel Headquarters, but he insisted town when they grew up. While in Japan, the delegation on escorting the students on their visits A SIFA staff member speaking at paid an official call to the Headquar- to the Imperial Palace and the National the get-together introduced the friendly ters of Cel Corporation in Ginza, To- Diet, carrying his suitcase with him, contacts between Sichuan and Japan. kyo. The 200-odd staff and workers and briefed the children on Japanese He expressed heartfelt thanks to the or- led by Mr. Nishimoto gave the delega- history and culture. ganizers and on behalf of SIFA extend- tion a warm welcome. The four stu- Fujita Kanko Inc., a hotel sponsor, ed an invitation to the youth of quake- dents talked about what they had seen provided complete hospitality services. hit East Japan to visit Sichuan to see its and heard in Japan and impressions of The general manager of the hotel in Giving an interview which the delegation stayed greeted the students on their arrival and saw them off on departure. He also presented them with gifts like kaleidoscopes and stationary. In their four days in Japan, the members of the delegation, with baseball as the medium and through interaction with Japanese young people, demonstrated the good mental outlook of youth in the Sichuan quake area. They contributed their bit to consolidating the basis for lasting Sino-Japanese friendship and injected vitality into the friendly contacts between the Chinese and Japanese people that have lasted for over 2,000 years.

38 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013

Experience Korean Culture on A Visit to Gwangju

Zhang Yan

he 10th China-ROK Youth and T Children Art Exchange Activity, co-sponsored by the CPAFFC and the Government of Gwangju Metropolitan City, was held there from July 19 to 23, 2013. Sixteen Chinese primary and middle school student art troupes comprising over 500 people from 16 provinces, regions and municipalities including Beijing, Guangdong, Shandong and Xinjiang demonstrated their performing skills on stage together with nine Korean student art troupes. The participants, through songs and dances, gained knowledge and created friendships in sharing joyous and touching moments. This was the first major activity held since the signing last May of Korean youths performing Fan Dance, a traditional Korean dance an agreement on friendly cooperation and jointly staged a performance to the Korean culture. The 36 items pre- and cultural exchange between the show their different cultures. The Chi- sented by the young performers of both CPAFFC and Gwangju Metropolitan nese performers brought to the stage countries showed the cultural diversity City Government. The latter attached Chinese ethnic group dances, perfor- and development of their respective great importance to the activity and its mances of traditional Chinese musical countries through their unique under- relevant departments gave great sup- instruments, wushu (martial arts) and standing and interpretation. port. Vice Mayor Oh Hyung-kook was calligraphy and painting demonstra- After the performance, the Chi- present at the opening ceremony and tions, to provide a realistic portrayal of nese children learned Korean fan dance made a speech. the multi-ethnic character of China. from Korean teachers. Having mas- The Korean students presented tered the basic movements, they joined Art Exchange such traditional items as fan dance, in a dance with the Korean students, The Chinese and Korean chil- circle dance, Pansori, Taekwondo and the fans in their hands sometimes form- dren gathered in the Grand Theatre of K-pop, enabling their Chinese peers to ing a mountain and sometimes a flower Gwangju on the morning of July 20 have a more intuitive understanding of to the audience’s delight.

39 In Other Lands

culture and art, enabled them to experi- They went to the theatre to watch ence Korean culture through their eyes, Nanta, a representative Korean cultural hands and taste buds. show and a non-verbal performance, They visited schools, exchang- telling the story of four crazy chefs ing contact information with Korean given the impossible task of creating a students, learning Gangnam Style wedding banquet in just one hour. The Dance, and witnessing the signing of performers used knives, pots and pans, the agreement on the establishment of water bottles, cutting boards and other friendship-school relations between kitchen utensils to make rhythmic mu- China’s Chengdu Yulin Middle School sic and their performance, combining and Gwangju Speer Girls’ High School. acrobatics, magic tricks and comedy, They went to a folk village—Na- was hugely enjoyed. ganeupseong Fortress—in Suncheon, They attended a kimchi-making Jeollanam-do, to see the efforts of the class, where they learned that lack Korean government to protect the an- of fresh vegetables had helped create cient village and its 90-odd thatched kimchi from ancient times. Under their houses dating from the Joseon period teacher’s guidance, they spread evenly The Chinese and Korean students (1392-1910) and to learn about the lo- the pre-mixed chili paste on pre-treated exchanging contact information cal life and customs. cabbage. They were excited to learn Experiencing Korean Culture They visited Boramae Safety Ex- that the fruit of their labor would be It was the first time for the Chi- perience Center watching videos that sent to a local home for the aged. nese students to visit Korea. Their reproduced scenes of earthquakes and The five-day visit soon came to knowledge of the country had come typhoons and walking into earthquake an end. The Chinese children left the from Korean TV series broadcast at and typhoon simulation chambers. country with beautiful memories and home in recent years. The visit to They learned how to avoid danger and deeper understanding of Korean cul- Gwangju, traditional home of Korean help each other in a disaster. ture. Chinese children performing Fan Dance they have just learned with Korean teachers and students

40 China’s Foreign Friends

Jean Ping, a Legendary Figure In Sino-African Contacts

Tang Ruimin

ean Ping completed his term mission of the African Union. J of office as Chairman of the In his diplomatic career, he al- Commission of the African Union in ways adhered to the values of his fa- 2012, and, this year, made his sixth ther, and his calm, tolerant, intelligent visit to China at the invitation of the and diligent character won him wide CPAFFC to receive its honorary title of praise and recognition. He has been Friendship Ambassador. awarded medals of Grand Officer of He was born in Gabon in 1942. the Equatorial Star (Gabon); Grand Of- His father, Cheng Zhiping, was a well- ficer of the Legion of Honor (France); known local timber merchant from Officer of the Pleiades, the Order of the Wenzhou, Zhejiang Province who emi- Francophony; Grand Cross of Merit grated to Gabon in the 1930s, married (Portugal). In 2004, he was awarded an the daughter of a local chief and reared honorary doctorate from China Foreign three sons. Being brought up in a bicul- Affairs University. tural environment, Jean Ping eventu- Nurtured in the traditional cul- ally became like a seed of Sino-African tures of China and Africa, Jean Ping friendship planted in the soils of Ga- has profound feelings for China and his bon, taking root and eventually bearing hometown Wenzhou. In the mid-1980s, much fruit. CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin pre- as director of the President’s Office, he After finishing his primary edu- senting the medal of Friendship Am- accompanied Gabonese President on bassador to Jean Ping cation in Gabon, he went to study in his visit to China. France and received a doctorate in eco- held various ministerial posts such as That was his first visit to the nomics. His diplomatic career began minister of information, mining, energy country; his second was made in 1994 in 1972, when he started to work at the and hydroelectric resources, finance, when he was Foreign Minister and ac- United Nations Educational, Scientific and planning. He was appointed Minis- companied the Gabonese Prime Min- and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) ter of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation and ister. He went to Wenzhou during the as an international civil servant, and Francophony in 1999. visit and was accorded warm hospital- later, he became Executive Officer of He also served as President of ity. The hard working, self-improving the Assistant Director General for Co- the Organization of Petroleum Export- and pioneering spirit of Wenzhou left a operation and External Relations. ing Countries (OPEC), Vice Chairman deep impression on him. Then, he was appointed counselor of the Group of 77, and President of In October 2003, he participated of the Gabonese Embassy in France and the 59th Session of the United Nations in the World Wenzhou People’s Con- Permanent Delegate of the Gabonese General Assembly; in February 2008, ference and in September 2009, he re- Republic to UNESCO. From 1990, he he was elected President of the Com- turned to his hometown to attend the

41 China’s Foreign Friends opening ceremony of the Museum of China-Gabon Friendship. He was Galina Kulikova, Cultural Envoy present at the ceremony for the pub- lication of the Chinese version of his Of Sino-Russian Friendship book Et l’Afrique brillera de mille feux (Africa Will Shine Brighter than a Thousand Flames) in November Qian Guangjian 2010, and the Second Dialogue Be- tween Chinese and African Governors and Mayors in June 2013. Due to his China ties and cultural identity, Jean Ping has worked enthusiastically to promote contact between the people of China and Gabon. He set up the Gabon-China Friendship Association in 2003, and became its president. Through his encouragement, Port Gentil of Gabon and Wenzhou established friendship- city relations in 2010. He said then that he was an Af- rican with Chinese roots and feelings Staff of the Russian Embassy in China and the Kalinka Choir singing together and concerned about the changes and at a concert in the Beijing Concert Hall in 1995 development of the country. He believed that the 21st Century would Russian Songs Performed at the of the Chinese People’s Association see the rise of the Chinese nation and Beijing Concert Hall for Friendship with Foreign Countries that China’s prosperity and progress “Our country is so vast with nu- (CPAFFC) and the Russian Embassy, would bring incalculable influence on merous fields and forests. We have nev- and students from Russia, etc. peace and progress of the world. er seen other nationals breathe as freely We included in the repertoire Today, the Museum of China- as we do.” These words open the first songs familiar to the audience, such as Gabon Friendship, a modern building song Motherland March, performed by The Song of the Perturbed Youth, My with Chinese and African features, the Kalinka Choir at a concert of Rus- Dear Mother, Five Daughters like Five stands in Yitou Village of Linjiang sian songs in the Beijing Concert Hall Flowers, Hawthorn Tree, Quiet Field, Township, hometown of Jean Ping. on June 25, 1995. earning warm applause each time. The cost of more than 8 million Yuan Since there was scarce opportu- When the MC announced the last item, for its construction was covered by nity to see a performance of Russian a female chorus of the Russian Embas- fund-raising in Wenzhou. songs on Chinese stage for almost 30 sy, there was thunderous applause. In the Museum, the rich collec- years, the concert drew a large number Galina Kulikova, Vice President tion of photos and African sculptures of music lovers, including members of of the Russia-China Friendship As- relates Jean Ping’s ties with Yitou the National Day Alumni Association sociation (RCFA), and nine others, Village, his extraordinary process of Chorus, Western Returned Scholars dressed in white blouses and black growth, his achievements, as well as Association Chorus, Beijing Tongxin skirts, walked onto the stage and sang his outstanding contributions to Chi- Chorus and the Friends of Folk Song two songs. The beautiful melodies and na-Africa friendship. Chorus, as well as local media, staff their passionate singing excited the au-

42 Voice of Friendship No. 174 December 2013 dience, who clapped and cheered at the celebration in the Russian Embassy sian children from the Russian Em- end of each song. that winter. We sang several classi- bassy to participate jointly with us in After that, our choir joined the cal Russian songs such as The Bird of a Retrospect of Songs in Soviet Films Russian performers in singing Moscow Happiness, Kalinka and My Moscow at organized by China Central Television. Nights together with the audience un- the party, and Ms. Kulikova presented The children sang Blue Train and their der the baton of conductor Chen Shi- honorary certificates to those making tender voice and sweet smiles drew wei. The words reverberated through outstanding contributions to the promo- warm applause. the concert hall, followed by a long tion of Sino-Russian friendship. Excellent works of Russian music, ovation. I was very excited to receive the dancing, poetry, literature, painting, au- I felt relieved to see such a warm certificate on behalf of our choir. Af- dio and video products, and collections scene. Only seven days earlier, when I ter all, we were just a group of fans of of Russian songs have emerged in large announced that our choir would hold a Russian culture. numbers in recent decades. Russian concert at the Beijing Concert Hall dur- The first time I met Ms. Kulikova Concerts and Chinese choruses singing ing a party for World Women’s Films was in 1993 at a Mid-Autumn Festival Russian songs have become popular. Week, I was not so confident. get-together at the Russian Embassy. There have been frequent ex- Ms. Kulikova said she would at- The middle-aged woman with big eyes changes between cultural groups of the tend. After the party, I wrote to her, and beautiful blond hair spoke excel- two countries. The Russian Alexander inviting her to perform in the concert. lent Chinese. In her capacity as Cultur- Rolf Red Flag Song and Dance Troupe, She immediately called me back and al Counselor of the Russian Embassy Moscow Classical Ballet, National Lit- told me they would sing two songs. Al- and Vice President of the RCFA, she tle Birch Tree Dance Troupe, and Igor though they only rehearsed three times introduced our choir to all the guests Moiseyev Ballet have made several over the weekend before the show, their present. tours of China. performance added extraordinary color Russian Ambassador Igor Ro- Chinese fans of Russian culture to the concert. gachev even offered us piano accom- always rush to the venues such as Bei- Shortly after the concert, Ms. Ku- paniment. This first meeting left a jing Concert Hall, Tianqiao Theater, likova wrote a passionate letter to our beautiful memory and was the start of Poly Theatre, Exhibition Center The- choir, expressing her amazement at our continuous contact. atre and the Great Hall of the People to performance which not only embodied Ms. Kulikova was very ener- enjoy the excellent performances. the art of music, but also the connota- getic. Her warm laughter and elegant tion of Russian vocal music. demeanor attracted everyone around Promise to Meet Again at Departure She admired our endeavor to her. She often went to watch concerts The Russian Embassy held a fare- bring about a revival of singing Soviet of Russian songs held in Beijing and well reception for Ms. Kulikova on and Russian songs in China and consid- performances by visiting Russian art January 19, 2001, and a few representa- ered the poetic name of our choir “Ka- groups and attended other cultural ac- tives from our choir were among many linka” (meaning edelweiss in Russian) tivities. Besides, she often joined the Chinese and foreign guests. as evidence of the cultural interaction, small gatherings with our choir. In his speech, Ambassador Ro- mutual understanding and friendship In 1997, she led a group of Rus- gachev spoke highly of her excellent between the two peoples. sian experts in Beijing to perform in the service for 11 years. Art performances Russian-style friendship party hosted then followed. Two members of our A Good Friend and by Yang Hua from Beijing Music Ra- choir, Dai Misheng and Li Ming, sang Competent Diplomat dio Station featuring a dozen amateur in Russian The Russian Field, a favor- In 1995, the 50th anniversary choruses. She sang with passion and ite piece of Ms. Kulikova while I ac- of the victory of World Anti-Fascist danced beautifully at the party. companied them at the piano. War, our choir was invited to join the In 1998, she led a group of Rus- Ms. Kulikova was very pleased

43 China’s Foreign Friends and came over to give each of us a hug. the RCFA that evening, where mem- (the Russian-style accordion) remark- Other guests also came over, gave her bers had prepared a variety of Russian ably well. He would play after dinner gifts and had pictures taken with her. dishes and drinks. Also present were every night and that was the most en- Ms. Kulikova shook hands and hugged Colonel Somov, Head of the Alexander joyable time. Hearing the music, people everyone while saying goodbye with Red Flag Song and Dance Troupe and would head towards the deck to dance tears in her eyes. She told us: “You several well-known Russian singers and sing in turns. must go to Russia to visit the famous and artists. We took out The Collection of Summer Palace and Winter Palace, and After the welcome speech by Ms. 88 Russian Songs, and asked him to the Volga River. See you in Moscow.” Kulikova, everyone began to enjoy the accompany us. We sang over a dozen delicious food and talk in Chinese, Rus- Russian songs to our hearts content. Reunion in Moscow sian, or English mixed with gestures. The Russians on board were really Ms. Kulikova often thought of us After dinner, the Russian artists and surprised. They had never seen Chi- after returning to Russia. At Christmas ourselves presented solo, duet, chorus nese who could sing so many Russian of 2003, she arranged for New Year and musical instrument performances. songs. greeting cards to be brought to us to- The three-hour long get-together ended I stood on the deck gazing at the gether with a passionate letter and a with all present singing in unison The direction towards Moscow where Ms. big box of delicious chocolates. In the Song of the Perturbed Youth by the fa- Kulikova lived. Our hearts were close letter she invited us to visit Russia. All mous composer Aleksandra Pakhmu- despite our ship slipping further away. of us felt a touch of sweetness in our tova. We visited the famous Summer Palace, hearts while tasting the Russian choco- It is said the best way to know Winter Palace and sang on the Volga late. Russia was to take a tour along the River, Mother River of Russia, just as In August, 2004, a tour group Volga River. We began our cruise from she wished. composed of members of our choir and Moscow on the third day. During the Music and dance go beyond bor- our relatives visited Russia. Ms. Ku- day, we visited several cities; at night, ders. Friendship between the Chinese likova came to see us at the hotel on we stayed on board, the only group and Russian people is just like the Vol- the day of our arrival in Moscow. We from China (most of others came from ga River that never stops flowing. As were very excited to see our old friend Russia). sincere fans of the Russian culture, we again. On the cruise ship was Alexei will always remember that wonderful Ms. Kulikova invited us to visit Alexeyevich who played the Bayan time. Galina Kulikova (L.6 in the second row) and Russian film and TV workers at a Russian-style friendship party with personages of various circles in Beijing in 1997

44 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever Unceasing Dream to Return “Home” ——On a Dedicated American Lady Eunice Moe Brock

Miao Baotian, Bo Zheng

“I’m American, but I have a Chi- nese heart.” Those who were familiar with her remember clearly these words Mrs. Eunice Moe Brock uttered in less than perfect Chinese. This loving and tender “Chinese heart” ceased to beat on April 28, 2013. This fine lady who devoted the last years of her life to charity in China left forever this land she loved so dearly and the people who loved her. The “China dream” of this old American woman inspires people. Her high moral character shown in her phil- anthropic deeds and her dedication to the cause of public health and public American Lady Eunice Moe Brock, dressing as Santa Claus, sending gifts to welfare becomes a spiritual monument villagers of Liumiao Village at Christmas in 2004 towering over Liaocheng City. States, nothing in her tranquil life over founding of the People’s Republic of Unbreakable China Ties long years could weaken her attach- China, the establishment of diplomatic Eunice Moe Brock was born in ment to China. She became a nurse of relations between China and the United central China’s Hebei Province on a children’s hospital after graduation States, etc. lifted her spirits. In 1992, August 11, 1917. Later she moved to from university. Later, she was promot- both Eunice and her husband retired. Liaocheng in Shandong Province with ed to the post of director of the educa- Freed from work, she reminded her her missionary parents. It was here that tion department and then president of husband Edwin of her wish to visit Chi- she grew from an infant into a graceful the hospital. na. Seeing the eagerness in her eyes, maiden. In the more than a dozen years No matter how busy she was with he finally agreed. So after an absence she spent in Liaocheng, the young Eu- her work and life, her memories of Chi- of over 60 years, Eunice, together with nice experienced the diligence, kind- na were always remained fresh, keep- her husband, returned to China — to ness and wisdom of the Chinese people ing alive her strong longing to return to find Liaocheng had undergone earth- and witnessed their poverty and suffer- China. shaking changes from the place she had ings during the chaotic warlords period. There were many reasons why known. Before going back to the United States this desire remained unfulfilled; how- She saw a thriving country that with her parents, she had already cher- ever, she always followed with inter- had shaken off war, starvation and pov- ished the wish to return some day. est what was happening in the country erty. This visit ignited her eagerness to After she returned to the United of her birth. Major events such as the settle down in China.

45 They Will Live in Our Hearts Forever

Grandma Eunice. expenses for over 100 pairs of glasses Eunice loved fitted for the elderly. children. On learn- Every weekend, she would go to ing that the village Liaocheng International Peace Hospi- primary school tal to give lessons to the doctors and had not been able nurses and she also donated a new-type to run a computer therapeutic apparatus and organized a course due to lack training course to facilitate its usage... of equipment and According to local calculations, funds, she imme- she had donated a total of more than diately donated 350,000 RMB in cash and kind in the US$30,000 for the past 14 years. She did not know how Eunice Moe Brock with the children of Liumiao Village purchase of com- many good things she had done, how The passing of her husband in puters and other electronic teaching much money she had donated to the 1998 brought unspeakable loneliness equipment. locality; yet, from the honorary titles to Eunice, and her yearning for the In the following few years, she conferred on her, such as Charity Am- faraway land grew increasingly stron- donated a total of 20,000 RMB to help bassador of Shandong, Charity Am- ger. In 1999, amid much puzzlement Liumiao Village kindergarten and other bassador of China, Ten People Who from family and friends, she sold all schools in the township buy toys, and Moved Shandong in 2006, Ten People her property, including 40 acres of for- teaching equipment for music, sports with Their True Stories That Move est, her villa, garden and car; traveling and fine art classes, while she herself China, Ten News People in Shandong, alone across the ocean, she arrived in led a frugal life. etc., we can understand the profound China on November 15. She often said, “I don’t want to feelings she had for the Chinese people With the help of China Youth live a luxurious life. What I want is to and their recognition and appreciation Development Foundation and the Liao- contribute my bit to the Chinese people for her noble morality. cheng Municipal Government, she settled with my limited savings and remain- Lin Fenghai, Secretary of the CPC down in Liumiao Village of Yanggu ing energy. Doing good will make life Committee of Liaocheng, said at the County, Liaocheng, where economic more meaningful.” When Wenchuan of memorial meeting for Eunice: “When I conditions were relatively good and Sichuan Province was hit by a cata- was the Mayor of Liaocheng, she came transport was convenient, and became strophic earthquake (in 2008), she to see me to talk about the problem of an honorary villager. made generous donations. 27 laid-off workers. She hoped that we After nearly 70 years, she had fi- When she learned that Liumiao would help solve the problem. We were nally fulfilled her wish of coming back Village would carry out greening work, deeply moved. Later, a decision was to China. she donated US$6,000 to buy trees, made by the Mayor’s Office to confer plants and flowers in 10 varieties and upon her the title of Honorary Citizen In Pursuit of Her Dream helped to plant them together with chil- of Liaocheng.” “Ring, ring …”, the bell rang in dren; she subscribed newspapers and the primary school of Liumiao Village. magazines for the Village and gave Her Dream Fulfilled The children had just finished the first suggestions for its development. July 24, 2009 was an unforget- computer class of their lives. But they Being the honorary president of table day for Eunice. On this day, the wouldn’t leave the computer lab, excit- Liaocheng International Peace Hospi- 92-year-old Eunice was granted the edly typing and seeing the words ap- tal, she organized free medical consul- Foreigner’s Permanent Residence Card pear on the screen. They knew that they tations and covered the cost of cataract in China—the Chinese “Green Card” were gifts for the new school term from surgery for five senior patients and the —by Shandong Province, becoming

46 Friendly Contacts the first foreigner in the province to receive the card in the category of “special talents”. In a meeting room in the Public Se- curity Bureau of Liaocheng City, Eunice received the card with trembling hands, her Japanese Silk Road Tour face glowing with happiness. She was very frank when talking about Delegation in Xinjiang death. On February 16, 2005, she submitted the body donation application form to the Liaocheng Red Cross Society. She said: “To Zhang Jiahu me, my body will be useless when I die. It’s maybe too old, but they can use my corneas Silk Road Tour Delegation postponed from the original sched- to help restore other people’s sight. My body A from Nara, Japan visited ule of September 2012 due to the can also be made into cadaver specimens for Urumqi and Kuqa of Xinjiang dispute over the Diaoyu Islands, so scientific research. I will pay for the trans- from July 24 to 30 and called they were deeply honored by the portation of my body. I have written all this on the Cultural Relics Bureau warm hospitality accorded them, in my will.” of the Xinjiang Autonomous which demonstrated the great at- She stuck that little sign on her passport Regional Government and the tention attached by the XPAFFC to for fear it would be forgotten. Xinjiang People’s Association for their visit. At 4:50 on April 28, 2013, Eunice died Friendship with Foreign Countries When she returned to Japan of multiple organ failure caused by coronary (XPAFFC). she would tell her colleagues the heart disease, completing her life of 96 years XPAFFC President Muzapar high courtesy and friendship they and engraving her love for China forever. Mijit met them on the evening of had received in Xinjiang and en- After the ceremony to pay last respects, July 29. He said that it was quite courage them to continue to make and in accordance with her will, Eunice’s cor- admirable for the delegation to unremitting efforts for the cause of neas were donated to the Shandong Red Cross visit China at a time when Sino- Sino-Japanese friendship. Society for organ transplants; and her body Japanese relations were suffering. Members of the delega- was donated to Liming Medical College for Their visit would surely have a tion spoke highly of Xinjiang’s teaching and research. In this way, this lovely positive significance on promoting achievements in economic devel- American old lady passed on her love and at exchanges and enhancing mutual opment, social progress and ethnic the same time fulfilled her “China dream”. understanding and trust between unity in recent years. Both hosts Eunice Moe Brock has passed away, the people of Xinjiang and Nara. and guests at the banquet recalled but her kind deeds will always be remem- He thanked the Japan-China their friendship and toasted to each bered. We cherish profound memory of her is Friendship Association (JCFA) and other expressing their wishes to not only to commemorate her contributions Nara JCFA for the long-term sup- create a better future hand in hand. to people-to-people exchanges and friend- port and help given to the XPAFFC The delegation was com- ship between China and the United States, for carrying out people-to-people posed of old and middle-aged but also to carry forward her spirit of great exchange activities with Japan. friendly personages from all walks love featuring selfless dedication and cease- Delegation head Ms. Junkei of life in Nara. Most of them had less pursuit of her dream, so that her story Yasuda said many members of the visited Xinjiang several times will touch and influence more people and delegation had visited the region since the 1980s and made gener- encourage them to pursue their dreams in a several times and had developed a ous donations to the maintenance life-long process of struggle for success in a special bond with it. She told Mu- and restoration of cultural relics down-to-earth way. zapar Mijit that the trip had been and historical sites.

47 Friendly Contacts

A Trip to China

Daniel Martin (Colombia)

Editor’s Note: The Vermont School of Colombia is one of the few middle schools in the country that teaches Chinese as the second foreign language. In early June 2013, a 77-member student delegation came to China to attend a summer camp jointly hosted by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and the North China University of Technology (NCUT). The following is an essay written in Chinese by a Colombian student recording his tour in China.

On May 30, 2013, over 70 stu- ents at home. Then, we got onto a bus the ancient culture. dents from our school, the Vermont and headed towards the NCUT while Then, we went to Xi’an and saw School of Colombia, all dressed in listening to a tour guide’s introduction. the Terracotta Warriors that I had long green uniforms, arrived at the airport At lunchtime, we found the food dreamed of seeing. They looked very to begin our trip to China. After two here was quite different from that in tall, and large, as well as very old. Be- hours at the airport, having said good- our country. However, without hesita- sides, we also visited the Xi’an City bye to our parents, we finally boarded tion, we took the first bite and slowly Wall, on the top of which we rode bi- the plane. We were very excited and discovered the delicious and unique cycles. There we saw another side of impatient, wishing the plane would land quality of Chinese food. ancient Xi’an. in Beijing, China as soon as possible. In the following days, we visited It was very hot the day we arrived About 10 hours later, I saw the beautiful the Beijing No.2 Middle School where in Shanghai. But the hot weather could red sunset across the blue sky from the we learned the art of Chinese pottery, not stop us from visiting the beautiful window when our plane landed in Paris. painting and calligraphy, and became city. We went to the Yuyuan Garden, As our flight had been delayed, we ran good friends with Chinese students. appreciated the classical architecture quickly through the transit passageways Then, we visited Tiananmen Square, and lovely carp in the beautiful lake. and boarded the plane to Beijing. the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace We also went to the Oriental Pearl As soon as we arrived in Beijing, and the Great Wall—one of the Seven TV Tower, a building with an exte- we immediately bought the SIM phone Wonders of the World, through which rior made of glass. I was rather scared cards at the airport and called our par- we deeply felt China’s long history and when entering the tower at first. Then we found it was very solid and became The Colombian students at a pottery class in the Beijing No. 2 Middle School happy to see such a special building. Finally came the day for us to return to Colombia. On the one hand, we felt happy because we missed our parents; on the other, we were very sad about leaving China so soon. I swear I will never forget this trip to China. After visiting three beautiful Chinese cities, I’ve known the ancient China through Xi’an, the present China through Beijing, and the future China through Shanghai. What a great country! The trip will always remain in my mind.

CONTENTS Retrospect and Prospect Create New Glory on Achievements of Past 60 Years ���������������������������� Li Xiaolin 2

CONTENTS Retrospect and Prospect Create New Glory on Achievements of Past 60 Years �� Li Xiaolin 2