President Li Xiaolin attends the reception of International Nakuruzi Festival.

President Li Xiaolin takes photo with the representatives of Singapore.

The 4th -US Governors Forum was held in , province, on May 22, 2018.

The curtain of the 8th Chinese, Japanese and South Korean Youth Painting and Calligraphy Exchange and exhibition rises at the Gimcheon Museum of Fine Arts in South Korea, on May 22, 2018. Contents FOCUS Express News 04 President Li Xiaolin and her Japanese counterpart co-chair forum for Chinese and Japanese governors / Wang Lei 04 Vice-President Xie Yuan attends Michigan China Week / Zhang Yang

05 Vice-President Hu Sishe marks 200th anniversary of Karl Marx’s birthday

/ Liu Jiayun

05 2018 Cairo Duanwu Dragon Boat Carnival held in Egypt / Gong Xu

06 Seminar on the practice of Marxism in China held in Brussels 04 / Zuo Fengqiang

06 Secretary-General Li Xikui attends signing ceremony for donation of

gamma knife to Morocco / Shao Shuai

07 Chinese education workers visit Japan / Beijing Friendship Association

07 2018 Earth Hour lights-out at National Stadium / Beijing Friendship

Association 09 1417 08 Chengdu artist wins top prize at 2017 International Competition of Artists with Disabilities / Chengdu Friendship Association

08 Setting sail on a long voyage for win-win cooperation / Chengdu Friendship

Association

Cultural Exchanges

26 09 President Li Xiaolin attends opening ceremony of exhibition 3020 marking 200th anniversary of Marx’s birth / Liu Jiayun

10 Taiwan county hosts 8th Cross-Straits Spring Festival Temple Fair

/ Liu Jiacheng

12 Building consensus for the future / Zhang Zhongxun

14 2018 Beijing Belt & Road Culture Tour in Pakistan / Beijing Friendship

Association 4330

2 NO.192 June 2018

15 2018 China-Vietnam Traditional New Year Woodblock Prints exhibition opens

in Beijing / Beijing Friendship Association

16 Second China-Morocco Friendship Forum held in Agadir / Ai Lin

18 Chinese lanterns overflowing with lights, colors in Europe/ Wu Yuna

20 Brussels seminar commemorates 200th anniversary of the birth of Karl Marx

/ Zuo Fengqiang

Interview

21 For the everlasting friendship between China and Japan / He Yan Published in Chinese and English

View Front cover: President Li Xiaolin, Wu Zhongqiong, Vice- Governor 25 The echo of civilization / Yu Xiaodong of Jiangxi province and Minister Konrad Woolf jointly initiate 27 Telling the world about the / Zhang Heqiang Chinese culture exhibition marking 200th anniversary of 28 Joint creation of a demonstration zone for China-UK cooperation / Liu Chang Karl Marx’s birth. 31 Speech at a tea gathering / Liu Deyou

34 Celebrating 40 Years of China’s reform and India-China relations

/ Hemant Adlakha

37 2018 China (Shenyang)-Hungary culture exchange week a success Sponsored and published by the / Shenyang Friendship Association Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries

Between Friendship Cities Editor-in-Chief: Gao Weimin

38 Chengdu-Azerbaijan melody rang out on Belt and Road Address: 1 Taijichang St., Beijing, 100740, China / Chengdu Friendship Association

40 Israel’s consul-general reluctant to leave / Mo Yi Fax: (010) 65122782 E-mail: [email protected] 41 Normalized education cooperation / Chengdu Friendship Association

42 Chengdu accelerated its development as an important center for exchanges in http://www.cpaffc.org.cn http://www.qikan.com China / Chengdu Friendship Association ISSN 1000-9582 CN11-1234/D

3 Express News

President Li Xiaolin and her Japanese counterpart co-chair forum for Chinese and Japanese governors Wang Lei n May 11, the 3rd Forum of Governors from China and Japan O — co-hosted by the CPAFFC, the China-Japan Friendship Association and the Japanese National Governors Association — was successfully held in Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan. Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe attended the opening ceremony and delivered speeches. CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin and National Governors Association President Ueda Kiyoshi, who is also governor of Saitama Prefecture, addressed the forum on behalf of the organizers and jointly presided over the exchange events between the Chinese and Japanese governors. CPAFFC Vice-President Song Jingwu was among the attendees. Previous forums were successfully held in Tokyo and Beijing in 2012 and 2014. It is the highest-level platform for the National Governors Association in Japan based on regular exchanges of visits between Chinese and Japanese governors over the past four decades. Vice-President Xie Yuan attends Michigan China Week Zhang Yang ice-President Xie Yuan led a CPAFFC delegation to Michigan- V China Week in the United States from May 6 to 9. The event was hosted by the state government of Michigan and the Michigan-China Innovation Center. Around 150 government and business representatives from Guangdong, Sichuan, , Liaoning, Jilin and Heilongjiang provinces participated. They visited the American Center for Mobility and the University of Michigan and had extensive exchanges with representatives from public and private sectors of the state. Governor Rick Snyder of Michigan met with Xie. Snyder warmly welcomed the Chinese delegation to the first-ever China Week held in Michigan. He attributed the rapid growth of Michigan’s economy in recent years largely to its fruitful cooperation with China, noting that Michigan is now the No 3 US state for Chinese investment. He expressed hope that China Week would create more opportunities for the two sides to increase potential cooperation.

4 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

Vice-President Hu Sishe marks 200th anniversary of Karl Marx’s birth Liu Jiayun n April 20, a news conference about a large-scale cultural O exhibition — Chinese Cultural Series: Meet China in Celebration of the 200th Anniversary of Karl Marx’s Birth — was held in Trier, Germany. The series was jointly sponsored by the CPAFFC, General Directorate for Cultural Heritage Rhineland-Palatinate (Generaldirektion Kulturelles Erbe, or GDKE) and the Federation of German-Chinese Friendship Associations (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Deutscher China- gesellschaften, or ADCG). CPAFFC Vice-President Hu Sishe; Salvatore Barbaro, state secretary of the Ministry of Science, Lifelong Learning and Culture of Rhineland-Palatinate; Thomas Metz, director-general of GDKE; Wolfram Leibe, mayor of Trier; Dr Stefanie Hahn of the Ministry of Science, Lifelong Learning and Culture of Rhineland- Palatinate; Kurt Karst, president of ADCG; representatives from the IHK Chamber of Industry and Commerce Rheinland-Pfalz; and members of the Chamber of Trade attended the news conference. 2018 Cairo Duanwu Dragon Boat Carnival held in Egypt Gong Xu n May 12, the 2018 Cairo Duanwu Dragon Boat Carnival O was held on the Nile by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the Egyptian-Chinese Friendship Association, with the aim to spread traditional Chinese culture, enhance friendship between the Chinese and Egyptian peoples and commemorate the 60th anniversary of the founding of the Egyptian-Chinese association. The carnival included six dragon boat teams (including one from Shanghai’s Putuo district), consisting of paddlers from China, Egypt and the United States. Hundreds of spectators from both China and Egypt watched the competition. This big event was reported by several Egyptian mainstream media outlets. CPAFFC Vice-President Lin Yi, Chinese Ambassador to Egypt Song Aiguo and Vice-President of the Egyptian-Chinese Friendship Association Ahmed Wali attended the opening ceremony. The carnival saw for the first time a mixed team of contestants from the three countries.

5 Express News

Seminar on the practice of Marxism in China held in Brussels

Zuo Fengqiang

seminar on how Marxism has been practiced in China was held A in Brussels on May 5 to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the birth of Karl Marx. The event was jointly hosted by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign countries and the Belgium-China Friendship Association. More than 100 people, including experts and scholars from Belgium, France, Switzerland and China, discussed their understanding of the issue during the seminar. CPAFFC Vice-President Song Jingwu, BCFA Chairman Hans van Duysen and Zhang Chi, minister counsellor of the Chinese embassy in Belgium, attended the seminar and delivered speeches. Journalists from around 10 media outlets, including Xinhua News Agency, CCTV, People’s Daily, Jiefang Daily and China News Service covered the event. Secretary-General Li Xikui attends signing ceremony for donation of gamma knife to Morocco Shao Shuai

n agreement was signed in Beijing on Feb 7 for the donation of a A gamma knife by the China Friendship Foundation for Peace and Development to the Lalla Salma Foundation of Morocco. Li Xikui, secretary-general of the CPAFFC and director of the CFFPD, attended the signing ceremony, along with Cao Shudong, deputy general manager of China National Nuclear Corp; Jia Ling, sec- retary-general of the CFFPD; Meng Yanbin, chairman of the Board of China Isotope & Radiation Corp; Latifa Elabida, secretary-general of Lalla Salma Foundation of the Kingdom of Morocco; Mourad Layachi, charge d’affaires of the embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in China; Khalil Mohammed, president of Morocco-China Friendship Associa- tion; and other leading officials.

6 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

Chinese education workers visit Japan

Beijing Friendship Association

t the invitation of Japan-China Friendship Center, the Chinese A People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries organized the 22nd Chinese education workers’ delegation for a five-day visit to Japan from Jan 29 to Feb 2 upon the 40th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Peace and Friendship between China and Japan. The 59 members of the delegation were all grassroots teachers from Beijing and Heilongjiang, Gansu and Anhui provinces. Among them 29 were backbone teachers from the Dongcheng, Xicheng, Haidian, Chaoyang and Shunyi districts of Beijing, sent by the Beijing People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries. During the visit, the delegation branched out to visit Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. The Chinese teachers visited high schools in Tokyo and Osaka to exchange ideas with local teachers and students and learn about Japan’s schools. 2018 Earth Hour lights-out at National Stadium Beijing Friendship Association

n March 24, the Beijing NGO Association for International O Exchanges, and the World Wide Fund for Nature held the Earth Hour 2018 lights-out campaign at National Stadium (Birds Nest) in Beijing. More than 260 people attended the countdown ceremony, including Gao Shuangjin, vice-president of the association; leaders from supporting governmental units, such as the foreign affairs office of Beijing municipality, the Beijing city management commission and the Beijing environmental protection bureau; Li Bingbing, the global ambassador of Earth Hour 2018; entrepreneurs Wang Shi and Zhang Zetian; well-known hosts Chen Duo, Wen Yan; artist Yu Quan; young pianist Tian Jiaxin; and other guests from home and abroad. Themed “Open My 60-Plus Life”, this year’s campaign is expected to bring the 60-plus lifestyle and 20 low-carbon lifestyle behaviors to the public.

7 Express News

Chengdu artist wins top prize at 2017 International Competition of Artists with Disabilities Chengdu Friendship Association

n the 30th anniversary of the Chengdu-Phoenix sister-city rela- O tionship, Laura Pastor, vice-mayor of Phoenix, Arizona, in the United States, led a delegation to Chengdu. Pastor announced during the March 19 meeting with Chengdu Vice-Mayor Liu Xiaoliu that a photograph taken by a Chengdu disabled artist had won the first prize in the 2017 International Competition of Artists with Disabilities. Pas- tor handed the certificate to the director of the Chengdu Disabled Per- sons Federation. Since 2006, Chengdu and Phoenix have had frequent exchanges in art. In December 2017, seven artistic works created by disabled people in Phoenix were exhibited at the first Exhibition of Chengdu Disabled Artists’ Paintings and Calligraphy. Setting sail on a long voyage for win-win cooperation Chengdu Friendship Association

n March 14, 2018, the Queensland Cup Chengdu to the Gold O Coast Youth Video Competition officially kicked off in Chengdu, Sichuan province. The competition was co-organized by the Chengdu foreign and overseas Chinese affairs office, the Chengdu education bureau and Study Gold Coast. Thirteen final winners will be selected from among Chengdu middle school students participating in the com- petition. The winners will go on a two-week free study tour in Gold Coast as goodwill ambassadors. Chengdu and Gold Coast established friendly cooperative relations in 2016. Through the joint efforts of both sides, several exchange events were held, including the 2015 Chengdu- Gold Coast Panda and Koala Sculpture Design Competition, China to Gold Coast—An Education Experience and the 2016-17 Queensland Cup Best of Chengdu teen video contest. More than 20 young students from Chengdu visited Australia for the study tour. At the launching ceremony of the video competition, Chengdu and Gold Coast renewed their framework agreement on education cooperation.

8 Cultural Exchanges

President Li Xiaolin attends opening ceremony of Chinese culture exhibition marking 200th anniversary of Marx’s birth

Liu Jiayun

o commemorate the 200th President of ADCG Kurt Karst; and changes in China’s society and feel T anniversary of Karl Marx’s birth, Curator of the Rheinisches Landes the pulse of China’s development in an exhibition of Chinese culture museum Marcus Reuter. the new era. In this way, Li said, they — Meet China — is underway in In her speech at the opening cer- may fall in love with China and begin a Germany. emony, President Li said that viewers journey there. She expressed hope that The exhibition series is jointly of the exhibition will have a sense of the exhibition would serve as a win- hosted by the Chinese People’s the fascinating Chinese culture from dow for Germans to learn more about Association for Friendship with Foreign the photos, paintings, handicrafts, his- China, a bond to join the two peoples’ Countries, the General Directorate for torical books and artistic performances feelings and friendship and a bridge to Cultural Heritage Rhineland-Palatinate characteristic of different areas and facilitate communication and mutual (Generaldirektion Kulturelles Erbe, or different ethnic groups. They could, learning between German and Chinese GDKE) and the Federation of German- Li said, find out about the tremendous cultures, with exchanges between the Chinese Friendship Associations (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Deutscher China- gesellschaften, or ADCG). The opening ceremony was held on June 1 in Thermen am Viehmarkt, a Roman ruins museum in Trier, Germany. Present at the opening ceremony were nearly 200 honored guests from government, friendship associations and commercial, academic and artistic fields of the Rhineland-Palatinate, as well as Chinese guests, including CPAFFC President Li Xiaolin; Jiangxi province’s Vice-Governor Wu Zhongqiong; Consul-General of the Chinese Consulate General in Frankfurt Wang Shunqing; Minister of Science, Lifelong Learning and Culture of Rhineland-Palatinate Konrad Wolf; President Li Xiaolin (third from right) with guests at the start of the exhibition.

9 Cultural Exchanges

two countries’ provinces and cities. Wolf said that mutual recognition Taiwan county hosts 8th and communication between different cultures would not only cross politi- cal and economic boundaries but also Cross-Straits Spring Festival facilitate mutual understanding among different peoples, thereby promoting Temple Fair political and economic development. The seven provinces and cities engaged Liu Jiacheng in the cultural exhibition series, he said, represent almost one-fourth of China’s entire territory, enabling people in Trier rom Feb17 to 21, the 8th Cross- tors also added to the difficulty of run- to learn about various facets of China F Straits Spring Festival Temple ning the fair. Following instructions — a “charming country” — through Fair of Folk Customs — jointly from CPAFFC President Lin Xiaolin, different activities related to the exhibi- organized by the China Friendship the CFFPD and the Sichuan friendship tion. Foundation for Peace and Development association made painstaking efforts in Jointly launched by the CPAFFC; (CFFPD), the Chinese Culture their preparatory work. They patiently Jiangxi province; Beijing; Shandong Friendship Association and the Sichuan coordinated with relevant parties to en- and Qinghai provinces; Chengdu, Sich- People’s Association for Friendship sure the successful opening of the fair uan province; Baoshan, prov- with Foreign Countries — was held as scheduled. ince; and Shaoxing, Zhejiang province, with success at the Convention and The Temple Fair included a tour- the Chinese culture exhibition series Exhibition Center in Nantou county, ism-themed photography exhibition, will be open for four months (June 1 to Taiwan. Vice-President Xie Yuan of a Sichuan delicacies buffet, a promo- Sept 30), starting with a segment called the Chinese People’s Association for tional sale of special Sichuan products, Spirit of Jiangxi, Taste of China. Presi- Friendship with Foreign Countries, a Sichuan tea exhibition, a display of dent Li Xiaolin, together with Jiangxi CFFPD Secretary-General Jia Ling, lanterns made in city, an intan- Tantou county Mayor Lin Mingzhen gible cultural heritage exhibition, an Vice-Governor Wu Zhongqiong and and Deputy Mayor Chen Zhengsheng ethnic song and dance performance, Minister Konrad Wolf, announced the attended the opening ceremony. the Charming Sichuan exhibition and opening of the exhibition. a promotional exhibition about Sich- Journalists from German media Bashu culture crosses the Straits uan aviation and logistics. The exhibi- and their Chinese counterparts from Recently, because of the strained tions and performances were highly People’s Daily and Xinhua News Agen- and complex situation across the Tai- acclaimed by the Taiwan public. Every cy covered the exhibition. People’s wan Straits, the Temple Fair — which day, throngs of visitors came to experi- Daily and German media interviewed had been held at the Taichung Cultural ence a Bashu-flavored Spring Festival. President Li. and Creative Industries Park for seven More than 300,000 people visited During her visit in Germany, years — had to be temporarily relo- the Temple Fair during the five days, President Li also had talks with Min- cated to the Convention and Exhibi- an unprecedented event in the county. ister Wolf and Trier Mayor Wolfram tion Center of Nantou county, Taiwan. CCTV4 Chinese International Channel, Leibe. Some other unexpected negative fac- Sichuan Satellite TV, People’s Daily

10 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

Online, Sina.com, Sohu.com, China Vi- Temple Fair quenched their thirst for fied, saying that this year’s Spring Fes- sion News, CTS News, TVBS News, native food and assuaged their home- tival made her dream come true. Central News Agency, Taichung Daily sickness. Upon arriving in Taiwan, Jiang and 10 other mainstream media outlets On the stage, the Sichuan per- Weiming, a master of dark tea making, from both sides of the Taiwan Straits formers shook hands with members of an intangible cultural heritage from covered the event. the audience and asked if they liked Sichuan, bought a teapot made of mud the performance. The local viewers taken from Sun Moon Lake. He re- Disaster relief effort responded with exhilaration, “We like marked that using teapots made in Tai- On the eve of the event, a mag- you all very much! It was the Tsai au- wan to make dark tea from Sichuan would nitude-6.5 earthquake jolted Hualien thorities that created trouble to prevent better unleash the tea fragrance and make county, Taiwan, causing casualties and you from coming! We hope you will the tea more aromatic. Every day his stall property losses. In an expression of come to Taiwan every year!” was surrounded by visitors who came espe- sympathy for affected Taiwan compa- A woman surnamed Xiao from cially to ask for a sip of tea. triots, the CFFPD donated NT$500,000 Changhua, Taiwan, had never been to The Temple Fair captured the to the affected areas. CPAFFC Vice- Sichuan, yet she was very interested quintessence of Chinese culture shared President Xie announced the donation in and imagined many across the Taiwan Straits as it has ex- at the Temple Fair’s opening ceremony, times sitting in a theater watching live isted in the customs of people on both wishing the disaster-hit areas success in performances. She took her husband sides. The event greatly promoted cul- weathering the difficulties. and daughter to enjoy up-close the tural exchanges between the two sides During the fair, local attendees magical face-changing skills of Sich- and brought the people from the island tasted snacks, watched performances, uan Opera. She was especially grati- and mainland closer. enjoyed folk customs and talked with members of the delegation. Touching stories happened every day. “I heard that your Temple Fair had moved to Nantou this year, bringing Sichuan food and intangible cultural heritage. So I went out of my way from Taichung,” a man surnamed Hong, who has been a follower of the fair for seven years, told us. “Wherever your Temple Fair goes, I’ll be on its heels.” Leraning from media reports that the Sichuan Temple Fair would be held in Nantou, a woman surnamed Yan, a Sichuan native who lives in Taiwan, took several of her friends — also Si- chuan natives — to the fair on the first day of its opening. She said that it had been more that a decade since she last Face-changing in Sichuan Opera went home to Sichuan and that the

11 Cultural Exchanges

Building consensus for the future

Henan friendship association makes fruitful visit to Japan

Zhang Zhongxun

nvited by Japanese Shorinji Kempo on starting new areas of cooperation in new fields in the future while I Unity, Liu Jinfeng, vice-president and exchanges in the future. They also strengthening the current friendly of the People’s Association for discussed the best ways to conduct cooperation in culture, education and Friendship with Foreign Countries, led exchanges. grooming of talent. a delegation of four people to Japan The delegation met Yuki President So said she is always from Feb 23 to 25. SKU is a martial So, president of SKU, on Feb concerned about the development of arts association. 23. Vice-President Liu delivered China and Henan and will continue to During the visit, the delegation congratulations to SKU on the 70th pay attention to the implementation attended closing ceremonies marking anniversary of its founding on behalf of Henan’s development strategy in the 70th anniversary of the founding of Henan province and expressed the future. In particular, she will pay of SKU, as well as other events that his admiration and gratitude for the close attention to the building of the were part of friendly exchanges. The plentiful work SKU had done over the Zhengzhou Airport Economic Zone, delegation met with leaders of SKU, years to promote friendly cooperation National Innovation Demonstration representatives from Japanese political and exchanges between China and Zone and the formidable task of and business sectors, officials from the Japan, as well as between Henan and poverty alleviation, and will offer Chinese embassy in Japan and officials various sectors in Japan. Liu briefed support in all possible aspects, she from Chinese People’s Association for his hosts about the 19th Congress of said. Friendship with Foreign Countries. the Communist Party of China and the On Feb 24, the delegation They reviewed the history of friendly current economic and social situation attended the closing ceremony marking cooperation between SKU and Henan in Henan province. He proposed to the 70th Anniversary of the founding and conducted in-depth discussions expand exchanges and cooperation of SKU. About 430 people attended the

12 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

closing ceremony. Attendees included fruitful results Henan had achieved and there are broad prospects for government officials; representatives of in exchanges with Japan, and said cooperation between China and Japan the business sector; middle and senior that people-to-people exchanges in various fields. leaders of SKU; Cheng Yonghua, have broad prospects for further They made two suggestions: China’s ambassador to Japan; Zhu development. They promised that First, Henan must vigorously develop Dan, deputy director-general of the they will continue to support and help people-to-people exchanges that will CPAFFC’s Japan department; and Shi Henan in exchanges with Japan. promote more official exchanges Yongxin, abbot of Henan’s Shaolin The three-day visit was fruitful between the two governments. Since Temple. and meaningful. The delegation ancient times, nongovernmental Ambassador Cheng, speaking for enhanced mutual understanding and exchanges have been an important the Chinese embassy in Japan, noted trust through in-depth exchanges part of the diplomatic relationship that China and Japan are neighbors and with senior officials of the SKU and between nations. As far as Sino- have a history of more than 2,000 years various political and business sectors. Japanese relations are concerned, of friendly exchanges. As a typical The visit also effectively enhanced nongovernmental exchanges have example of Sino-Japanese cultural Henan’s influence and popularity in remained stable in history, and exchanges, Shaolin Temple boxing in Japan. have played an indispensable role Japan has deep roots in China, Cheng Next, the delegation will in promoting mutual understanding said. follow up and implement the many and trust. To deepen exchanges “In the past 70 years, SKU has consensuses reached during the visit. and cooperation between Henan played an important role in promoting For example, efforts will be made and SKU, the two sides need to mutual understanding and friendship to encourage Zhengzhou University continuously develop new and between the two peoples,” Cheng said. to establish links with Japan’s better methods of carrying out “We sincerely hope that it will continue top universities, to accelerate the nongovernmental exchanges to to increase its role as a bridge, and development of higher education in promote intergovernmental exchanges. take the opportunity of this year’s 40th Henan province. Second, more visits Second, Henan should anniversary of the Sino-Japanese Treaty and exchanges will be arranged to help continuously broaden the scope of of Peace and Friendship to further carry the young people of the two countries cooperation with Japan. Doshin So, out exchanges with China.” enhance mutual understanding the founder of SKU, believed that In her speech, So expressed her and broaden horizons. Third, SKU “realization of world peace starts gratitude for the support received from will rely on its special strengths to from Japan-China friendship. Without all walks of life. She spoke of the encourage Japanese businesses to friendship between the two neighboring philosophy of Shaolin Temple boxing invest in Henan. This will boost the nations, there will be no peace in Asia. in Japan and said she will continue to implementation of development Without peace in Asia, there will be no push forward the development of the strategies such as Zhengzhou Airport peace in the world”. SKU. Economic Zone, the National SKU has long adhered to this The delegation also exchanged Innovation Demonstration Zone and principle and has promoted exchanges ideas with Ambassador Cheng poverty alleviation work. with China. Thus it has contributed and Deputy Director-General Zhu After the visit, delegates said they significantly to Henan’s economic and about China’s relations with Japan. believed that the civilian foundation social development, the SKU president Cheng and Zhu spoke highly of the of Sino-Japanese friendship is solid, said.

13 Cultural Exchanges

2018 Beijing Belt & Road Culture Tour in Pakistan

Beijing Friendship Association

ceremony was held at the Chinese Qutub, president of All Pakistan-China snuff bottles, traditional drug incense, A Culture Center in Islamabad, Friendship Association. clay masks, painted sculptures, paper Pakistan, on Feb 5 to launch the Beijing The ceremony had more than 150 cutting, bristle figures and color draw- Belt & Road Culture Tour, a program guests, including some from China’s ings on classic gourds — all of which hosted by the Chinese capital for cultural Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry attracted long lines of visitors waiting exchanges with countries participating of Education, Higher Education Com- for a closer look or a brief dialogue in the Belt and Road Initiative. mission and Confucius Institutes, as with the artisans. The photo exhibition The ceremony was organized by well as Chinese exchange students in presented major events taking place the Chinese Embassy in Pakistan, the Pakistan, delegates from the All Pak- in China in 2017, as well as various All Pakistan-China Friendship Associa- istan-China Friendship Association, achievements in Beijing urban devel- tion, the Beijing People’s Association the Pakistan National Council of Arts opment and the lives of residents. The for Friendship with Foreign Coun- and partners of the Chinese Culture show included 10 prize-winning works tries and the government of Beijing’s Center. by Pakistani participants in the Beijing Xicheng district. The event featured Beijing’s intan- in the Eyes of Foreign Friends photog- The event was part of a program gible cultural heritage handicrafts and raphy contest. initiated by the Beijing association and a photography exhibition, China Story: The exchange program was de- the Xicheng government to promote 2017 Photo Show. Seven handicrafts signed to promote mutual understand- cultural exchanges with foreign maestros showed their skills in creat- ing between the people of Beijing and countries. Their efforts also included an ing the heritage items — inner-painted those of other countries. earlier Beijing-ASEAN Culture Tour. The exchange program aims to tell the world about Beijing’s efforts to build itself into a center of political, cultural and technological innovation, while carrying on traditional Chinese culture. Yao Jing, China’s ambassador to Pakistan, attended the opening cere- mony. Speeches were given by You Yi, director of the Pakistan China Culture Center; Syed Junaid Akhlaq, joint sec- retary of the Pakistan national history and literary heritage division; Li Yi, head of the tour delegation and deputy mayor of Xicheng district; and Attia A.

14 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

2018 China-Vietnam Traditional New Year Woodblock Prints exhibition opens in Beijing

Beijing Friendship Association

While the rising sun shines over each and tourism. springtime customs. Guests from and every household / People would The exhibition included 50 both countries could also make their put up new peach wood charm for the choice woodblock prints from the two own woodblock prints, and practiced old. countries, showing unique artistic writing spring couplets. These two poetic lines describe characteristics and local flavor, together The ceremony was attended by how people replace old woodblock with a sense of common origin. The members of the Vietnamese culture prints for the coming New Year. prints were first displayed in Beijing delegation; Vietnam’s Ambassador to To welcome the coming spring, during Spring Festival and scheduled to China Dang Minh Khoi; Xie Jinying, a ceremony was held in the compound move to Hanoi to entertain Vietnamese director of the international liaison bu- of the Beijing People’s Association viewers. reau of China’s Ministry of Culture; for Friendship with Foreign Countries At the opening ceremony, Mr Sun Jianhua, deputy director of educa- (BPAFFC) on Jan 8 for the China- Bai Dacheng, an expert on Beijing tion, culture and tourism at the ASE- Vietnam Joint Exhibition of Traditional folklore, introduced the origins AN-China Center; Tian Yan, executive Woodblock Prints, jointly hosted by and different genres of Chinese vice-president of the BPAFFC; and the BPAFFC; ASEAN-China Center; woodblock prints. His Vietnamese Li Meng, vice-president of BPAFFC. International Cooperation Bureau of counterpart presented five fruit Media outlets from Vietnam and China Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports plates characteristic of Vietnamese covered the event. and Tourism; and the government of Beijing’s Xicheng district. China and Vietnam have long been neighbors with shared borders and destinies. People in both countries have had frequent exchanges and learned from each other, producing many shared customs. To celebrate Spring Festival, the two countries planned last year to hold the Joint Exhibition of New Year Woodblock Prints, an iconic symbol of the New Year. The event coincided with the visit by a Vietnamese cultural delegation led by Nguyen Ngoc Thien, the country’s minister of culture, sports

15 Cultural Exchanges

Second China-Morocco Friendship Forum held in Agadir Ai Lin

hina and Morocco have enjoyed a years. Mohamed Khalil, its president, Morocco, as well as representatives C long history of friendly exchanges. has done much to promote people-to- of entrepreneurs from both countries. Ibn Batuteh, a famous Moroccan people exchanges between the two Saadeddine Othmani, Morocco’s current traveler, created an often retold story countries. In January2016, during Pres- prime minister, who was minister of about the maritime Silk Road between ident Xi Jinping’s visit to Egypt, Khalil foreign affairs at the time, attended the the two countries. This year marks the was presented with the China-Arab forum, and more than 10 Moroccan 60th anniversary of the establishment Friendship Outstanding Contribution and international media outlets covered of diplomatic relations between China Award with nine other Arab figures and the event with reports that generated and Morocco. had a group photo taken with President favorable social responses. In order to consolidate the Xi. The Second China-Morocco traditional friendship and strengthen The First China-Morocco Friendship Forum had two themes people-to-people cooperation between Friendship Forum was held in Rabat in — “Morocco: Portal of China’s Belt China and Arab and African countries, April 2016 — themed “Spring of the and Road Initiative in Africa” and “60 the Chinese People’s Association for Silk Road is Blooming in Morocco” Years of Relations between China and Friendship with Foreign Countries, and attended by 150 local officials of Morocco”. More than 400 people from the Morocco-China Friendship and 10 provinces and cities in China and 17 provinces and cities in China and Exchange Association and the Souss Massa Region jointly held the Second China-Morocco Friendship Forum in Agadir on March 26 and 27.

Nongovernmental organizations work together to promote local government exchanges The China-Morocco Friend- ship Forum was jointly created by the CPAFFC and the MCFEA with the aim of enhancing mutual understanding between provinces and cities of China and Morocco and pushing to build an institutional platform of practical coop- eration in the fields of business, trade, culture and tourism. The MCFEA has A speaker at the Second China-Morocco Friendship Forum. been a partner of the CPAFFC for many

16 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

more than 10 Moroccan provinces companies from province Forum takes practical cooperation at and cities, including leaders of local displayed their products and performed local government level as a starting governments and representatives from the traditional tea ceremony at the fo- point, consolidates the China-Morocco cultural, trade and economic circles, rum, which drew the attention of more strategic partnership and strengthens attended the forum. Both sides had than 10 enterprises, including the Mo- friendship between the peoples of both in-depth discussions on establishing rocco Aveiro Co, HTM Consulting countries. As a member of the African friendship-city relations and enhanc- Firm and Haliotis Consulting Firm. Union and member of the Arab League, ing cooperation in agriculture, industry, They had talks on specific cooperative and with its unique geographical posi- fishery, tourism, culture, new energy matters, such as product sampling and tion, Morocco will play a greater role and the digital economy. The discus- pricing, and reached preliminary agree- in enhancing the China-Africa compre- sions bore fruit. The forum received the ments for export of about 3,000 tons of hensive strategic partnership of coop- attention and support of King Moham- tea. After field investigations, Guizhou eration and the China-Arab partnership med VI of Morocco. Vice-President Lin New Energy Automobile planned to for comprehensive cooperation and Yi of the CPAFFC delivered a speech have specific discussions with the common development. It will reinforce at the opening ceremony. Artists from MCFEA and the Souss-Massa region China’s cooperation with Arab and Af- both countries performed at the closing on setting up a distribution center or banquet to add warmth to the friendly branch in the country. Companies from rican countries in the construction of atmosphere. Dalian reached intent agreements with the Belt and Road. The forum has also the Souss-Massa region on cooperation laid a solid foundation for holding the Local government exchanges lead to in aquaculture. Summit of the China-Africa Coopera- practical cooperation tion Forum and the Eighth Ministerial Practical cooperation consolidates in various fields Meeting of the China-Arab Countries traditional friendship Cooperation Forum scheduled for later Seven pairs of Chinese and Mo- The China-Morocco Friendship this year in Beijing. roccan provinces and cities reached a preliminary agreement on coopera- tion during the second forum. Letters of intent to establish friendship-city relations were signed in the following groupings: province and Ningx- ia Hui autonomous region with the Souss-Massa region; Ganxu province with the Marrakech-Safi region; Da- tong city with Taroudannt province of the Souss-Massa region; Changzhi and Nanjing with Agadir; and Wuxi with Ait Melloul. Shanghai Jiaotong University signed a memorandum of understand- ing on academic exchanges and coop- eration with Ibn Zuhr Univeristy. Tea

17 Cultural Exchanges

Chinese lanterns overflowing with lights, colors in Europe

Wu Yuna

I n the winter of 2017, southern from Spain and Switzerland. The lations on the success of the lantern France was hit by the most severe French national television stations M6 show. The Oxitani area, where Gaiaque freeze in a decade, and yet the southern and D3 aired the Gaiaque Chinese Lan- is located, also made a commitment to city of Gaiaque, with a population of tern Festival during prime time, creat- improving the parking conditions near just 10,000, had 250,000 visitors in ing a sensation in France. The number the festival venue. Local tourism busi- town. What attracted them to brave the of visitors on weekends hit more than nesses were the happiest of all. A fast- cold and rain to visit the small city? A 10,000, and they waited 20 minutes on food shop owner told reporters with Chinese lantern festival, the first kind average before entry. Yet the long wait excitement: “The lantern festival is fan- of it in France. did not dampen the gusto. The board tastic. At peak time, I have to prepare The lantern festival, jointly hosted of directors of the Toulouse Airport or- meals for 400 people. I’ve made a lot by the Chinese People’s Association for ganized a group to visit Gaiaque. The of money this winter. We used to feel Friendship with Foreign Countries and directors enjoyed themselves so much hopeless about our city, thinking that it the government of Gaiaque, and oper- that they lingered in the exhibition area was too small to be promising, but now ated by the Zigong Lantern Culture & for a long time. Some large French we think our city is back to life.” Industry Group, lasted for two months businesses even chose the site as the Exuding confidence, the mayor of from Nov 30, 2017 to Jan 31, 2018. venue for their annual New Year’s Gaiaque told us that his city would con- A total of 35 sets of lanterns were dis- meeting, to the joy of their employees, tinue to host the festival in the future played, featuring Chinese traditional who said that they had never attended a and make it a China-themed cultural culture and Gaiaque’s folk customs. New Year’s meeting with so much fun festival rivaling Disneyland in France. The colorful lanterns, with delicate and significance. Many visitors bought Lantern festival finds its way into paintings showing typical Chinese im- multiple-entry tickets so they could see 2018 China-EU Tourism Year ages and scenes representing Gaiaque’s the lanterns more than once. A couple traditional customs — the Temple of who came from the city of Albi visited The success of the Gaiaque Heaven in Beijing, Chinese porcelain three times and afterward was still re- Chinese Lantern Festival showed us dragons, adorable giant pandas and luctant to leave for home. At the con- a shortcut for introducing Chinese peacocks, as well as fountain sculptures clusion of the festival, the mayor had culture to European people. The year and wine breweries commonly seen in to decline requests from more than 20 2018 has been designated China-EU the French town. The novel lanterns French travel agencies for additional Tourism Year. When we learned that were crafted with ingenuity and made a visits. the Chinese mission to the EU was resounding impact in France. The Gaiaque Chinese Lantern preparing supporting activities for the People came to the festival from Festival also captured the attention of Year of Tourism, we did not hesitate the 20-odd towns around Gaiaque in France’s central government and many to recommend the use of lanterns from Tarn province, as well as from Paris, local governments. The French minis- Zigong Lantern Culture & Industry Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, and even ter of culture wrote a letter of congratu- Group. The proposal was immediately

18 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

accepted by the Chinese mission to the the Chinese and foreign VIP guests culture, combining art, customs, his- EU, the European Commission and the pressed buttons to start the movement tory, culture and music in one. Also, Brussels City Council. of a glass ball with the scrolling the touring lanterns narrated Chinese On Feb 22, a large-scale lantern words “China-EU Tourism Year”. stories to bring the hearts of Chinese festival exhibition themed “2018 Instantly, the nine sets of lanterns at and European people closer to each China-EU Tourism Year: Lighting the Grand Place and its periphery lit other. In addition, the organizers of the Up the Heart of Europe”, sponsored up simultaneously amid the melodies event did a good job in preparing and by the mission, China’s Embassy of classical Chinese ritual music. promoting the festival. They elaborate- to Belgium, the Sichuan provincial The time-honored city hall was clad ly designed and arranged the displays, People’s Government, the CAFFC, in Chinese red. Exclamations and which incorporated elements of local the European Commission and the cheers arose from the crowds. People life and customs to generate affinity Brussels City Council was unveiled excitedly took pictures of the lanterns among the local visitors. in Brussels, Belgium, where the EU and immersed themselves in the joyful, The CPAFFC has accumulated headquarters is located. Nine groups festive atmosphere. rich experience during its longtime of large lanterns, such as the Hall of The national television station of foreign publicity work, and hence Prayer for Good Harvests at the Temple Belgium, European News and Capital has a keen sense and ability to find of Heaven, the Belgian Atomium, red News of Belgium reported on the opportunities and partners. Our sincere lantern colonnades, blue and white lantern show. Other traditional media and earnest attitude is also playing a porcelain and panda images made their and new media also reposted their pivotal role in moving our partners. dazzling debut at the Grand Place in reports. It is hoped that the dazzling lights Brussels and its periphery. That night, of Chinese lanterns will serve as a Chinese traditional culture more than 300 guests from all walks window for people across the globe to shines in Europe of life attended the reception and learn more about Chinese culture and lighting ceremony, joined by a number The reason the lantern festival the warm and kindhearted Chinese peo- of celebrities, including Zhang Ming, proved popular in Europe is that lantern ple, working together to build a peace- head of the Chinese mission to the fairs are an outstanding part of Chinese ful and beautiful world in the future. EU; Qu Xing, Chinese ambassador to Belgium; Yang Xingping, vice- governor of Sichuan province; Shen Xin, director of the European and Asian department of the CPAFFC; Lowri Evans, director-general and Irmfried Schwimann, deputy director-general of the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entrepreneurship and SMEs; Philippe Close, mayor of Brussels; Karine Lalieux, deputy mayor of Brussels; and former Belgian prime minister Elio Di Rupo. When night fell, amid the synchronized countdown chanted by nearly a thousand visitors at the scene,

19 Cultural Exchanges

Brussels seminar commemorates 200th anniversary of the birth of Karl Marx

Zuo Fengqiang

he Chinese People’s Association of the Chinese Embassy in Belgium China and abroad — such as M. T for Friendship with Foreign said in his speech: “Never forget why Frank Willems, former president Countries and the Belgium-China you started, and you can accomplish of the Belgium-China Friendship Association held a seminar in Brussels your mission. One hundred and Association; Professor M. Harro Von on May 5, 2018 to commemorate seventy years ago, Marx and Engels Senger of the Swiss Comparative the 200th anniversary of the birth of wrote the manifesto of proletarian Law School; Professor Luo Kequan Karl Marx. More than 100 experts revolution. After so many years, the of the Marxism College of the Jilin and scholars from Belgium, France, Communist Party of China has never University; and Associate Professor Switzerland and China attended the wavered, despite adversity, and has Jiao Yushi of the Party School of the seminar — called The Practice of always taken the people’s aspiration Guizhou provincial Party Committee, Marxism in China — along with other for a better life as its goal. Under elaborated on such topics as Marx guests. They delivered speeches on this the leadership of the Party Central and Marxism in Belgium, two major important topic and exchanged ideas. Committee, with Comrade Xi Jinping functions of Marxism in China and In his speech at the opening cer- as the core, the Chinese people are not its influence in Chinese politics, the emony, CPAFFC Vice-President Song only striving to realize the Chinese origin and practical significance of Jingwu said: “Comrade Xi Jinping has Dream but also willing to build a the Marxist Theory of “a community put forward a series of groundbreaking beautiful World Dream with the of shared future for mankind”, the concepts, thoughts and strategies about people of the world.” logic of the Communist Manifesto and the governance of the country in line President Hans Van Duysen the theory of socialism with Chinese with contemporary national conditions of the Belgium-China Friendship characteristics. and practical needs. The new ideas and Association said in his speech: “Despite During the dialogue and exchange thoughts mark the birth of Xi Jinping the changes of the times, Marxism session, about 100 experts, scholars Thought on Socialism with Chinese is not outdated, and the West should and other attendees enthusiastically Characteristics for a New Era — which reflect on its own problems. China has discussed the relations between Marxist is leading the Party’s and nation’s cause created a different development pattern theory and the new thoughts, new ideas — to make revolutionary accomplish- from that of the Western world, found and new theories such as the Chinese ments and bring about revolutionary a suitable development path and made Dream, the Belt and Road Initiative change. This is another great leap for- remarkable achievements. I believe that and “a community of shared future for ward in the localization of Marxism in the China model will help the world mankind”. China, which will guide the Chinese overcome the crisis that may occur in More than 10 media outlets, in- people to accomplish the great mission the future.” cluding Xinhua News Agency, People’s of national rejuvenation.” In the keynote speeches section, Daily, China News Agency, and Jiefang Minister Counselor Zhang Chi experts and scholars from both Daily, covered the event.

20 Interview

For the everlasting friendship between China and Japan

Interview with Utsunomiya Tokuichiro

He Yan

tsunomiya Tokuichiro was born he argued, needed to approach its grandfather the First Class Order of U into a family traditionally friendly nearest neighbor, China, which has the Rising Sun. In 1991 he was awarded toward China. He is vice-chairman of a time-honored history and culture. the title of Friendship Ambassador by the Japan-China Friendship Association The two nations should establish — the Chinese People’s Association for and chairman of the Tokyo Japan- and continue to deepen — a mutually Friendship with Foreign Countries. China Friendship Association. As the beneficial strategic relationship, he May I ask how your grandfather eldest grandson, he was idolized by said. contributed to the normalization of his grandfather Utsunomiya Tokuma In November 2017, Utsunomiya diplomatic relations between China and has been deeply influenced by the Tokuichiro led a delegation of Japanese and Japan? atmosphere of Sino-Japanese friendship citizens to Beijing. I had a chat with A: My grandfather was a in the family. him at the hotel. Looking back over statesman. After World War II, he After completing his college the past, he said: “In August 1989, my joined the Liberal Democratic Party studies in Japan, Utsunomiya grandfather was bestowed an honorary of Japan. In 1952, he was elected a Tokuichiro went to the United States doctorate of law by Peking University House representative and continued to for seven years of postgraduate study for his contribution to friendship and be elected for 10 consecutive terms. at the University of Texas and attained peace between Japan and China. I In his opinion, Japan should apologize a Doctor of Medicine degree. During accompanied my father and grandfather to the Chinese people for the crimes it the period, he reviewed Sino-Japanese to Beijing. It was my first time to be in committed during the war of aggression relations from an international China. It was a significant event in my against China. He called for the perspective and concluded that Japan life.” normalization of diplomatic relations must strengthen cooperation with My grandfather helped Japan and between the two countries. China and other Asian countries. China normalize relations. In 1959, my grandfather Despite the US-Japan alliance, Japan Q: In November 1987, the accompanied Ishibashi Tanzan, former was just one of America’s allies. Japan, Japanese government awarded your Japanese prime minister, to visit

21 Interview

China and was received by Premier grandfather was happy that he had to publishing the magazine. After Zhou Enlai. That meeting left a deep played an important role in promoting his death in 2000, the relay baton impression on him and reinforced his economic and trade relations between was passed on to his friends. The determination to push for Japan-China China and Japan. The Japanese publication ran until 2004. This is one friendship. businesses hoped that bilateral relations of my grandfather’s great contributions After that, he visited China could develop further so that they could to the Japanese people, the Asian many times. In order to push the enter the huge Chinese market. My people and particularly the Chinese two countries’ relations towards grandfather helped many of them start people. normalization, he established an Asian- business in China. Q: What is your grandfather’s African studies society inside the LDP. In the 1960s, my grandfather influence on you? However, there were many opponents might have met Chairman Mao. I’m A: I am his eldest grandson. He in the party, such as Kishi Nobusuke, not sure, for I knew nothing about their lived with us. In my eyes, he was a grandfather of the current Prime contact, if any. Every time he came to kind old man, but he appeared powerful Minister Shinzo Abe. Debates within China, he mainly met with Zhou Enlai. in office or on public occasions. the party on the issue lasted until Certainly, he looked up to Mao. Occasionally he would lose his temper. the normalization of the diplomatic Q: Why did your grandfather However, he was tender to women and relations between the two countries in launch the Disarmament Review? often offered help to stateswomen, such 1972. A: It was his promise to the voters. as Doi Takako, former leader of the My grandfather loved peace. He In the 1976 election, disappointed with Social Democratic Party of Japan. hoped that Japan would not make the the LDP, my grandfather decided to Although Doi Takako and my same mistake as in the past. Though withdraw from politics. He opposed grandfather were not from the same I knew little about that period of the the political views of Kurisu Hiroomi, party, he still gave her a lot of help, history, I heard many stories from my a far-right-wing retired officer of the such as introducing her to American grandfather. Now, I often hear stories Self-Defense Force, who advocated statesmen, helping her understand about my grandfather from the elders strengthening of armaments. Japan-China relations and even of my family. Many voters yearned for peace offering her financial support. At my Q: Would you please share and urged my grandfather to participate grandfather’s funeral, Doi Takako said with us the contacts between your in the election again. To their delight, that she was lucky to have met my grandfather and Chinese leaders such he won the election in 1980 and became grandfather. as Mao Zedong, Zhou Enlai and Deng a member of the House of Councilors. Before World War II, my Xiaoping? In order to keep his promise to the grandfather was a student at Kyoto A: After 1959, my grandfather voters, he organized the nonpartisan University. His article criticizing maintained a good relationship with Dietmen League for International the system of the Emperor led to his Premier Zhou Enlai. When Deng Disarmament, set up the Utsunomiya imprisonment for a year and a half. Xiaoping visited Japan in 1978, my Disarmament Laboratory and published After he was released, he began to grandfather met him for the first time. the monthly magazine Disarmament study economics and made a fortune It was during a factory tour. There is a Review at his own expenses to promote in business. He then founded his own photo of him shaking hands with Deng. peace and friendship. company, Minophagen Pharmaceutical They looked like brothers. From 1980 to 2000, my Co., Ltd, to support his political That was a happy moment. My grandfather remained committed activities and win Diet election.

22 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

My grandfather hoped that I should not let such regrettable things Visiting China is a good way for would also go into politics. Regretfully, happen again. The disputes have caused Japanese young people to learn about I did not live up to his expectations. suspension of some friendly exchanges the real China, and to understand Now, I am in charge of the Minophagen between the two countries. and deepen their friendship with the Pharmaceutical Co. Q: 2017 marks the 45th Chinese people. However, given In my memory, my grandfather anniversary of the normalization that China is scantily reported by the threw a big party every spring when of the diplomatic relations between Japanese media, the Japanese people cherry trees were in bloom, inviting his China and Japan. 2018 marks the 40th cannot get the right information. Eighty friends and Chinese officials, including anniversary of the signing of the China- percent of the Japanese public do not the Chinese ambassador. He hoped that Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship. have a positive feeling toward China. future generations of Japan and China In your view, will the anniversary The number of Japanese people would follow the path of everlasting become a turning point in bilateral visiting China is decreasing, while friendship. relations? more Chinese people come to Japan. I am included in the future A: I think it is an important Many have expressed their affinity for generations, in my grandfather’s occasion. The current situation is Japan. I think more programs should be words. I love his idea — Japan and different from five years ago. Although in place to promote people-to-people China following the path of everlasting the LDP did not start the islands exchanges between the two countries, friendship. As president of the Japan- dispute, it has carried on the policies of and particularly encouraging the China Friendship Association in the party that did create the dispute. So Japanese people to visit China. I believe Tokyo, I, just like my grandfather, will the issue remains unresolved. that a better bilateral relationship can continue to be committed to the cause In my opinion, things are be achieved through these programs. of Japan-China friendship for the sake improving gradually. The Japan-China Further exchanges between of the well-being of our children and Friendship Association is working the young people grandchildren. closely with the Chinese embassy to encourage Japanese youths to visit Q: As vice-chairman of the Encourage more Japanese people China. Not long ago, 1,000 Japanese Japan-China Friendship Association to visit China college students from Tokyo interacted and chairman of the Tokyo Japan- Q: It is a consensus reached by with their Chinese counterparts in a China Friendship Association, could China and Japan to put aside disputes gathering at Peking University as part you please share with us your stories over the Diaoyu Islands. However, of an exchange program. I myself took in enhancing the Sino-Japanese since the Noda Yoshihiko government part in the activity. friendship? announced the implementation of Back in my country, many A: I have been working for the the so-called nationalization of the Japanese students study Chinese as Japan-China Friendship Association Diaoyu Islands in 2012, the Sino- their second or third language. Some since 2009. Here I would like to Japanese relationship has experienced can speak very good Chinese but have mention Saionji Kazuteru. He was difficulties. What is your comment on no chance to visit China. The exchange my mentor in my study of China. this matter? program will continue three or four During my first visit to China with my A: It is too difficult to answer years. The initial project has helped grandfather and father in 1989, Mr this question about the “islands”. In about 2,000 Japanese students visit Kazuteru was also in the company. One my view, it is a regrettable thing. We China. day in 2009, he came to my office and

23 Interview

said, “You are Utsunomiya Tokuma’s who wanted to join the association. peoples. If historical truth is kept in grandson and you live in Tokyo. Why When I first joined, there were few dark, there can be no friendly relations. don’t you work for the Japan-China young members. By contrast, we Only when the Japanese people Friendship Association?” Persuaded by now have 20 young members just in know more about China, can they have him, I served as an adviser soon after. the Tokyo branch. There are over 40 respect for this country and mutual In 2010, I became the leader of the branches in different cities of Japan. respect can be built between the two Association’s Youth Council. Young people are scattered throughout peoples. Unfortunately, we have not The year 2010 was of great these branches. achieved this result yet. We will work significance to me. I had just taken I subsidize the Tokyo branch with even harder in this regard. over the company from my father, money from my company’s profits. In China, many young people which meant that I had to deal with My company makes big bucks from its are fond of the Japanese culture, both my corporate business and my business with Chinese companies. So including Japanese anime. In recent job at the association. But I gradually why not donate part of the earnings? years, a lot of Chinese youths have learned how to unfold my engagement Besides, donations can also bring us visited Japan. Perhaps it is easier for in the association. At that time, there tax cuts. Honestly, the current state the young people of the two nations were many elderly members of the of our association is indeed a hard- to communicate with each other, as association. Thinking that it was earned result. We will continue to make they have common interests and more not good for the development of the progress. communication channels, such as association, I did a lot of work to invite Q: What will the Japan-China chatting online. young people to join us. Today, the Friendship Association do to increase I hope that the younger association consists of many college people-to-people exchanges? generation of the two countries students, mostly younger than 30. The A: For Japan, it is very important strengthens exchanges. I also hope Japan-China Friendship Association has to learn more about history, especially that more Chinese work in Japanese become a sustainable organization with that of the last 100 years. For example, companies and more Japanese get strong momentum for development we organized a visit by Japanese employed by Chinese businesses. The and a good partner of the China-Japan students to the Marco Polo Bridge to once-bankrupt Sharp company was Friendship Association. help them get some knowledge about saved by Chinese investors. In my Q: How will the Japan-China that period of history. The Japanese view, it is an effective way to enhance Friendship Association continue to government and educational authorities mutual understanding between the two advance Sino-Japanese relations? are vague in their attitude toward peoples through enhanced economic A: As I mentioned just now, the the modern history of Japan-China and trade links. association has launched a project to relations. They never told the Japanese Today, China is the second-larg- help the Japanese college students students what the Japanese army had est economy in the world. However, visit China. But it’s a pity that most done in China. some Japanese are still immersed in of them have not become members In order to help the Japanese conceited memories of past achieve- yet, due to their scanty knowledge of students learn about history, the ments. Times have changed. I believe our association or simply lack of time. association has also organized trips to these people’s attitude will also change. Students are often too busy with their Beijing and Nanjing. We will do more Under the leadership of President Xi studies to take part in extracurricular to reveal Japan’s past in waging the Jinping, the Chinese Dream of national activities. aggressive war against China. Only in rejuvenation will eventually be realized However, there are still a this way can friendly relations be built and greater benefits will be brought to considerable number of young people between the Japanese and Chinese the world. This is my honest feeling.

24 View

The echo of civilization Ancient treasures from Afghanistan tour China

Yu Xiaodong

n May 25, an exhibition of Alexandrian Empire, Indians, Turks tional treasures to save them. O precious cultural relics from and Chinese all had some relation- After the war, Afghanistan began Afghanistan opened at the Zhengzhou ships with Afghanistan. Zhang Qian, reconstruction. The National Museum Museum in China’s Henan province. a Chinese envoy during the Western selected more than 200 precious The touring exhibition is putting 231 of Han Dynasty (206 BC-AD 25), once artifacts to exhibit in France in 2006. Afghanistan’s most precious artifacts arrived in the country on a diplomatic Because the outlook in Afghanistan is on display. They have been “lost mission to what was then called the still not optimistic, the collection was treasures” for decades. “western regions”. The ancient Silk entrusted to UNESCO, which organized Though mentioned frequently Road across Eurasia brought the two the world tour. The collection has been in the global media, Afghanistan has countries closer. It was the complex- to Italy, the United States, Germany remained little-known to many. With ity of the country’s history that shaped and other 11 nations and regions. For the exhibition, it is presenting treasures the diversity and uniqueness of Afghan the past decade, the objects have not thousands of years old, works that culture. Through its collisions with returned to Afghanistan. In March have witnessed countless rises and Steppe, Greco-Roman, Chinese and 2017, the exhibition Afghanistan: falls in the long stretch of history. A Indian civilizations, the Afghan culture Treasures from the National Museum, crown covered with hundreds of hand- developed a special charm. Kabul was presented in the east wing hammered gold foil pieces; necklaces Since the beginning of the 20th of the Meridian Gate building at made of kallaite, rubies and gold; century, Afghanistan has given the the Palace Museum in Beijing. The applique ‘Kushana Aphrodite’; round- world the impression of being in a Afghan treasures, brought forth across eyed glass dolphin; ivory plaque with constant state of war. During the most millennia, unveiled its mysteries for the figures of a graceful Indian goddess recent decades of war and domestic Chinese audiences. are just a few of the many other chaos, the National Museum of Af- After the collection came precious items that radiate brilliance in ghanistan was looted, and its most to China, the exhibition once the exhibition hall, telling the stories of exquisite relics have been sold on the encountered difficulty because of some Afghan history and its mysterious and black market. Its paper records were uncertainties. At the critical moment, splendid culture. even used to set fires. In February with the mediation and leadership of The exhibition in Zhengzhou was 2001, the Taliban, which was then in the Chinese People’s Association for a sensation, with major media outlets power, ordered the destruction of Bud- Friendship with Foreign Countries, scrambling to cover the event. dhist statues throughout the country, and with coordinated efforts by Afghanistan, a crossroads of including the world’s tallest standing various other parties, the problems world civilizations, is a communica- stone Buddha statue — the 2,000-year- were overcome. In September 2017, tion hub in Eurasia. With a history of old Bamiyan Buddha Statue. Many Legendary Treasures of the Silk more than 4,000 years, the country has archeological sites, cultural relics and Road: Precious Collections from the experienced heydays of different dy- artifacts were smashed. Afghan relics National Museum of Afghanistan nasties. Mesopotamian civilization, the protectors hid large quantities of na- opened at the Dunhuang Academy

25 View

Preserve and Research Center, along Japan they were immediately dubbed trade. The initiative encourages mutual with the opening of Second Silk Road the golden exhibition. The Tillya Tepe respect and the harmonious coexistence (Dunhuang) International Cultural culture involves traces of many other of different civilizations, based on Expo. In two months, the exhibition cultures. For instance, the dragon the idea that cultural exchange should attracted more than 130,000 visitors, patterns on the relics are obviously be the bridge connecting different as well as widely known experts and influenced by China. This is also civilizations and enhancing friendship scholars in the relics and museology evidence that around the first century, between peoples to promote human fields from abroad. The treasures then during China’s Western Han Dynasty progress and world peace. We can draw went to Chengdu to be exhibited at the (206 BC-AD 25), Chinese culture was wisdom from different civilizations as Chengdu Museum under the title The transmitted to Central Asia through the we seek to solve humanity’s common Echo of Civilization: Ancient Treasures Silk Road, from whence it influenced the problems. from Afghanistan. That exhibition Western world. This exhibition stands as This collection of relics mirrors coincided with the Chinese Spring a testament to that glorious era. the vicissitudes of the world’s history Festival, and enthusiastic Chengdu It seems that some mysterious as well as the honors and humiliations citizens stood in line for hours to have a force remains today — even after 2,000 that have befallen the Afghan people. glimpse of the treasures. The exhibition years — that inspired China’s Belt It also reflects the collision and fusion received more than 500,000 visitors in and Road Initiative, which perfectly of various civilizations. Today, sci- three months. connects contemporary China with ence and technology are making steady Now, the exhibition has arrived in ancient times. This connection is no headway; however, the historical force Zhengzhou, Henan province, showing less significant than was the original inherited from ancient times can cause Afghanistan’s long history and splendid opening of the ancient Silk Road contemporary people to pause and re- civilization. millennia ago. Though culture was a flect. In hosting this exhibition, the Collections are from Tepe Fullol, byproduct of commodities trading on CPAFFC is acting on its sense of duty Ai Khanum, Tillya Tepe and Begram, the ancient road, the interweaving of to respond to the call of history and four major archeological sites that world civilizations is unmistakable. bring the mysteries of Afghan civiliza- exemplify the 2,000-year Afghan Under today’s Belt and Road Initiative, tion to the Chinese people. civilization spanning the Bronze age, culture has become as important as Bactria Kingdom, Rouzhi period and the Kushan Kingdom. They represent some of the world’s greatest archeological treasures. Some of the objects are a transfixing pattern of light and color, some excel for their remarkable workmanship, some are dazzling and some have profound connotations. They are objects of admiration not only for their exquisite craftsmanship and designs, but also for their amazingly rich, exotic charm. The most attractive relics are the gold objects from Tillya Tepe — so much so that when they were shown in

26 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

Telling the world about the Red Flag Canal

Zhang Heqiang

n April 10, Qin Jianhua, deputy suggests that if the excavated mate- Chinese nation’s indomitable, self-reli- O secretary-general and director rial was used to build a wall 2 meters ant and hardworking spirit. Telling the of the Foreign Affairs and Overseas high and 3 meters wide, it could con- canal’s inspiring story to the world will Chinese Affairs Office of Anyang, nect Guangzhou with Harbin — the be of benefit to the cause of poverty al- Henan province, and Zhou Xiang, Chinese mainland’s northernmost and leviation everywhere. executive vice-president of the Party southernmost metropolises. The Red Both the guests from Henan and School of Linzhou, led a delegation to Flag Canal has solved the water short- their hosts at the CPAFFC expressed visit the Department of American and age that had plagued the local people their determination to organize activi- Oceanian Affairs of the CPAFFC and for thousands of years and greatly im- ties to spread the Red Flag Canal spirit discussed how to spread the spirit of proved the living and farming condi- to other developing countries through the Red Flag Canal to the world. tions. It continues to serve the people exhibitions and lectures. In this way, they The Red Flag Canal, located in of Linzhou to this day. hope to provide support to these coun- Linzhou, Henan province, was built in The Red Flag Canal embodies the tries’ cause of poverty alleviation. the Taihang Mountains by the people of Linzhou (then called Linxian) in the 1960s under extremely difficult condi- tions. Dug entirely by hand, it diverted water from the Zhang River through the mountains. The digging of the Red Flag Ca- nal started in February1960, and the supporting works of its tributaries were completed nearly a decade later, in July1969. The project shaved 1,250 mountaintops, erected 151 aqueducts, dug 211 tunnels, built 12,408 pieces of infrastructure and excavated 22.25 million cubic meters of earth and rock. The main channel of the Red Flag Ca- nal is 70.6 kilometers long, and water is distributed throughout Linzhou’s villages and towns. A calculation

27 View

Joint creation of a demonstration zone for China-UK cooperation

3rd China-UK Regional Leaders Summit held in Northern Ireland

Liu Chang

he Third China-UK Regional Lin of Dalian; Secretary-general Xiao has made steady efforts to promote co- T Leaders Summit — themed Feng of the Shenyang municipal gov- operation with various provinces and “China-UK Industrial Area ernment; Director Zhou Jianping of cities in China, starting with education. Cooperation” — was co-hosted by the National Development and Reform In 2011, Hubei Normal University co- the CPAFFC and the Northern Ireland Commission of China; Consul General operated with Ulster University to build government in the capital city of Wang Shuying in Belfast; Robin New- eight Confucius Classroom centers in Belfast from Dec 1 to 3, 2017, as a ton, speaker of Parliament in North- Northern Ireland, covering 123 primary supplementary activity of the fifth ern Ireland; Arlene Foster, leader of and secondary schools with 18,000 reg- meeting of China-UK High Level Democratic Unionist Party; Michelle istered students. In April 2012, then- People-to-People Dialogue. O’Neil, leader of Sinn Fein Northern State Councilor Liu Yandong visited Attending the event were Ireland; David Sterling, acting head of Northern Ireland to inaugurate the Con- CPAFFC Vice-President Song Jingwu; Civil Service; Martyn Roper, minister fucius Institute of Ulster University. Vice-Governor Wang Dawei of Liaon- and deputy chief of Mission at the Brit- She received a warm welcome from the ing province; Vice-Mayor Weng Tie- ish Embassy in Beijing; Richard Burn, local people. The visit also became an hui of Shanghai; Vice-Governor Guo director general of China’s Department important milestone in the friendly and Shenglian of Hubei province; Deputy of International Trade; and Tim Losty, cooperative relationship between China Chairman Zhi Jianhua of the Chinese minister counselor for Northern Ireland and Northern Ireland. In May2013, People’s Political Consultative Confer- Bureau in China. then-First Minister Robinson and ence of Jilin province; Vice-Mayor Lu In recent years, Northern Ireland Deputy First Minister McGuinness of

28 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

Northern Ireland were invited by the the Northern Ireland government broke medical service, innovation, the knowl- CPAFFC to visit China. with convention and let the Chinese edge economy and entrepreneurship Liu, who was vice-premier at guests directly enter the parliament between Northern Ireland and China in the time, met with the delegation and house without going through security. recent years, along with their thoughts together they outlined the blueprint Speaker Newton greeted them at the about future cooperation. for cooperation between the two sides. entrance and shook hands with them During the summit, Vice-Gover- The government of Northern Ireland one by one. At the welcoming dinner, a nor Wang Dawei and Vice-Governor earnestly implemented the results of the student choir from the local Confucius Guo Shenglian signed agreements with meeting and sent then-Director General Classroom sang Chinese songs for the Sterling of Civil Service on behalf of Tim Losty of International Department guests. Arlene Foster, leader of Demo- Liaoning province and Hubei province to China to set up the region’s Beijing cratic Unionist Party, and Michelle for friendship-city relations with North- office in September 2014. Losty made O’Neil, leader of Sinn Fein Northern ern Ireland. Wang said the economic dozens of visits to Liaoning and Hubei Ireland, recalled their pleasant visits to structures of Northern Ireland and Lia- provinces to ensure implementation China at the invitation of the CPAFFC, oning are similar and complementary. of the cooperation projects. In 2014, saying that the summit was not only a The summit, he said, has provided an Queen’s University and China Medical review of previous cooperation but also opportunity for both sides to strength- University jointly set up a college in would open a new chapter of future en mutually beneficial cooperation in Shenyang, Liaoning province. In June cooperation between Northern Ireland high-end manufacturing, food process- 2015, the Chinese consulate general and China. ing, technical training and life sciences. was opened in Belfast. In 2016, the In his speech at the opening cer- Vice-Mayor Weng Tiehui, Northern Ireland government enacted emony, David Sterling, the acting head Vice-Governor Guo Shenglian, Vice the 2016-18 Strategy on Northern of Civil Service, recalled achievements Chairman Zhi Jianhua, Vice-Mayor Lu Ireland-China Relations. In December in cooperation between the two sides Lin and Secretary-General Xiao Feng 2016, First Minister Arlene Foster was and indicated that expanding coopera- briefed the summit about cooperation invited as the only representative of the tion with China is an important part of projects carried out between Northern devolved regions of the UK to attend Northern Ireland’s 2030 Vision plan. Ireland and their provinces and cities the fourth meeting of the China-UK Northern Ireland will deepen coopera- in medical service, agricultural food High Level People-to-People Dialogue tion with China in the fields of infra- safety, innovation and knowledge in China. Vice-Premier Liu met her and structure, knowledge economy, biologi- economy and creative industries. acknowledged the fruits of cooperation cal medicine and food processing in Minister Counselor Losty said that between Northern Ireland and China line with the Belt and Road Initiative, the summit was a new milestone of in the previous few years, pointing out he said. Northern Ireland’s ministries cooperation between Northern Ireland that “Northern Ireland has been in the of Agriculture, Health and Economic and Chinese provinces and cities. The forefront of China-UK cooperation”. Affairs; Queen’s University; Ulster Beijing Office of Northern Ireland will The December summit in Belfast University; and the owners of major continue to cooperate with the Chinese was the first time for the China-UK enterprises such as Huawei UK, shared Consulate General in Belfast and the Regional Leaders Summit to be held with the Chinese guests their under- CPAFFC in implementing practical outside England. As a gesture of warm standing of the fruitful cooperation in cooperation results. welcome to the Chinese delegation, the fields of agricultural food safety, Northern Ireland is one of the

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UK’s traditional centers of agriculture different stages of development. In re- and universities and invested a lot of and manufacturing. In recent years, it cent years, Northern Ireland has made manpower and material resources. The has relied on its educational resources remarkable achievements in industrial efforts show how much importance it to vigorously develop the knowledge transformation and has been at the fore- has attached to cooperation with Chi- economy and upgrade its traditional front of China-UK regional coopera- nese provinces and cities. Meanwhile, industries, shifting its economy toward tion. The CPAFFC hopes that Northern as the cradle of the Industrial Revolu- aviation manufacturing, biomedicine, Ireland and related provinces and cities tion, the UK has a number of old in- food processing, financial services and of China continue to strengthen coop- dustrial bases such as Northern Ireland creative industries. eration in the future and jointly face rich with valuable experience in indus- The China-UK Regional Leaders challenges in the process of promoting trial transformation and development Summit set its theme as “China-UK In- industrial transformation. from which Chinese provinces and dustrial Area Cooperation”, aiming to Director Zhou Jianping briefed cities can learn. Heads of a number of promote the sharing of experiences in the summit about China’s policies for national departments of China, such economic transformation and practice revitalizing old industrial bases — such as the Central Finance and Economy mutually beneficial cooperation. Ster- as Northeast China — and proposed to Leading Team Office and the National ling said that as a traditional industrial make use of the China-UK Advanced Development and Reform Commis- region of the UK, Northern Ireland Manufacturing Industrial Demonstra- sion, undertook investigations on in- has learned from its own development tion Park to strengthen cooperation be- dustrial transformation and upgrading experience to locate five key fields for tween the industrial regions of the two in the economic center — northern industrial transformation — accelerat- countries and promote the transforma- England — and the “economic engine” ing R&D, strengthening education and tion and upgrading of their industrial of central England, which had been fo- technical training, promoting inclusive areas through cooperation. cal points of the previous two China- and sustainable growth, exploring glob- Major political parties and differ- UK Regional Leaders Summits. The al markets and improving economic ent sectors of society of Northern Ire- National Development and Reform infrastructure. These five fields are the land are unanimous about developing Commission has sent representatives major pillars of the Northern Ireland relations with China. For a long time, to participate in this year’s summit. 2030 Vision plan. the CPAFFC has maintained a friend- In the future, the CPAFFC will Sterling expressed hope for more ly and cooperative relationship with continue to cooperate closely with the sharing of experience and mutually Northern Ireland and invited many Chinese Consulate General in Belfast beneficial cooperation with Chinese in- high-level officials such as chief min- and the Beijing Office of Northern dustries in the above-mentioned fields, isters and deputy chief ministers of Ireland. It will track and implement and for the joint promotion, upgrading Northern Ireland to visit China. Given results of the summit, and continue to and transformation of industrial regions the Brexit, Northern Ireland appears deepen cooperation between Chinese in both China and the UK. vital in terms of geostrategic position provinces and cities with Northern Ire- CPAFFC Vice-President Song and economic importance. land in infrastructure, trade, education Jingwu said that both China and the To prepare the summit, Northern and health. The cooperation will bring UK take the transformation of industri- Ireland mobilized resources from vari- benefits to the common people of both al regions as an important part of their ous sectors, including Parliament, gov- sides and create demonstration zone of national strategies but noted they are in ernment, parties, enterprises, colleges China-UK cooperation.

30 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

Speech at a tea gathering

Liu Deyou

pring is in the air in Beijing in anese relationship has followed a tortu- I want to stress that people-to- S April. ous and rough course. It started with people exchanges have been playing Today, I feel delighted and hon- people-to-people exchanges, proceeded a vital role in Sino-Japanese relations ored to be invited to attend the tea to the stage where unofficial organiza- since the founding of the People’s Re- gathering here in the compound of tions pushed for official contacts and public of China. It was at the grassroots the Chinese People’s Association for then went on to realize semiofficial, level that the Japan-China friendship Friendship with Foreign Countries. I semicivilian communication until the movement started off. The develop- would like to extend my thanks to the establishment of diplomatic ties, after ment of bilateral relations is the fruit China-Japan Friendship Association which exchanges have been conducted of the painstaking efforts of numerous for hosting this great event in such a through both official and nonofficial pioneers, both known and unknown, in- beautiful season. Thank you for giving channels. cluding all of you present here. It took me a chance to meet the distinguished During the first 40 years (1972- years of nongovernmental exchanges Japanese tea master Sen Genshitsu 2012) after the normalization of dip- to push Sino-Japanese relations toward and many other friends of Urasenke lomatic relations between China and normalization and bring about a situ- as well as officials from the Japanese Japan, the bilateral relationship main- ation where exchanges are conducted Embassy and those who work and live tained the momentum of advancement on both an official and unofficial basis. in Beijing. Today both our Chinese and on the whole and yielded great results There are a thousand reasons to cherish Japanese friends can not only enjoy the despite some ups and downs. This pe- the hard-won fruit, and not a single rea- flowers in full blossom but also taste riod was no doubt the most remarkable son to harm it. the Japanese matcha at the gathering. of all stages of the 2,000-years of Sino- Today, both China and Japan The year 2018 is of particular Japanese relations in terms of develop- should stay true to their original significance. It marks the 40th anniver- ment speed and positive results. How- aspirations when they realized the sary of China’s reform and opening-up ever, the widely known event that took normalization of diplomatic ties. They drive and the 40th anniversary of the place in the latter half of 2012 brought should not forget where they started, conclusion of the Treaty of Peace and the bilateral relationship to its nadir, to and return to the “origin”. Friendship between China and Japan, the disappointment of the two peoples. What is the origin? It refers to following the 45th anniversary of the Worrying about the future of the rela- the China-Japan Joint Statement on normalization of diplomatic relations tionship, the two peoples yearned for it the Establishment of Diplomatic Rela- between the two countries last year. to return to a track of stable and healthy tions, the China-Japan Treaty of Peace After World War II, the Sino-Jap- development as soon as possible. and Friendship signed in 1978 and two

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other political documents, as well as the direction of peace and friendship. to Chinese readers. the Four Principal Consensuses on the Given that the Sino-Japanese relation- Reading through the illustrated bilateral relationship. These four politi- ship is moving in a positive direction book, I think it highlights the concept cal documents are of profound historic currently, we are looking forward to of “heart”. In Japanese, the word has significance, for they have laid an im- some new changes in the near future. an extensive and profound meaning. portant foundation for political rela- Sen Genshitsu, the great tea It denotes, I think, a person’s spirit, tions between the two countries. The master of Urasenke, is an old friend as well as culture. Seeing what his core of these documents is nothing but of the Chinese people. He is also an country was like after World War II, peace and friendship. internationally renowned social activist. Sen Genshitsu said, “One must have History tells us that China and He has been committed to promoting an upward spirit and must not forget Japan must follow a path of peace, sado in different parts of the world and his culture.” He also said, “A man friendship and cooperation. It is the called for peace and friendship. The must have his own spirit, foothold only right choice and serves the fun- great tea master has always harbored and culture. Without these, he would damental interests of the two countries a friendly feeling toward China. He not win respect wherever he went.” and peoples. The peaceful coexistence, hoped to boost friendship and cultural His remarks made me believe that enduring friendship, mutually benefi- exchanges between China and Japan man needs to have a certain spirit cial cooperation and common develop- by means of sado and has made great when in poverty; and even when he ment of China and Japan are vital to contributions in this regard. becomes rich, he still, and even to a the peace, stability and prosperity of Cultural exchanges are conducive greater extent, needs some spiritual and Asia and the world at large. We must to enhancing friendship, mutual un- cultural attainment. ensure that bilateral relations develop derstanding and trust between the two Sen Genshitsu elaborates on the in a healthy manner. It is the common peoples. Cultural exchanges can help “heart” in his book Wabi-Sabi: The aspiration of the Chinese and Japanese build a bridge linking people’s hearts. Traditional Japanese Aesthetics. It is peoples that peace, friendship and win- It is a bridge of friendship and mutual generally believed that this term can win cooperation make up the bilateral understanding. I hope more and more only be perceived by intuition rather relationship rather than hatred, con- people will interact through the bridge. than expressed in words. In Chinese, frontation or war. I think sado is an important part wabi-sabi is sometimes translated as We should take a long-term per- and platform of cultural exchanges be- “ 闲寂 ”(xianji, or loneliness in leisure) spective when assessing Sino-Japanese tween China and Japan. and “ 枯淡”(kudan, or indifference in relations. In my view, a friendly rela- Back in 2003, on the occasion of boredom). However, the Chinese trans- tionship meets the expectations of the the 25th anniversary of the signing of lation seems to have failed to render the people and is a general trend not to be the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and full meaning of the words. Sen Gen- disrupted or reversed by any person Friendship, the Chinese version of The shitsu gives a dialectical explanation of or force. Though certain sensitive and Heart of Tea to the World by Sen Gen- wabi-sabi in his book. He said, “People complicated problems remain in the shitsu was published by the Culture and tend to interpret wabi as loneliness and tense relationship, signs of thawing Art Publishing House in Beijing. The quietness. They are wrong.” As proof, have appeared lately. We hope that the book not only marked another mile- here is a Japanese poem (waka) by Fu- two sides will make consistent efforts stone in the development of friendship jiwara no Ietaka. to maintain their positive momentum and cultural exchanges between China and push bilateral relations forward in and Japan but was also his greatest gift Why expect blossoms only?

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Look at the green shoots, 1279) dynasties, ink-wash painting personal relationship valued in sado Coming out of snow-covered of landscapes, birds and flowers and is a good example. When it comes to fields. pastoral poetry became popular. Since destiny, great importance is attached to Aren’t they heralding the spring? then, the simple, unadorned and tran- “once in a lifetime”. quil style has become a trend in Chi- “Once in a lifetime” in Japanese It is said that Sen Rikyu loves the nese culture. I would suggest that the means that every meeting is the only poem very much. He gave a new inter- Book of Changes provided the source one in a person’s life. Even if people pretation of it. According to him, the for the Japanese aesthetics of simplic- may meet one another many times in poem demonstrates wabi. Sen Rikyu ity and tranquility; Confucianism and the future, the meeting itself cannot noticed the dynamic feature of wabi Laozi–Zhuangzi philosophy helped it be repeated. So we need to treasure when watching the grass sprouting spread; and Zen lent weight to its popu- each meeting instead of overlook- from snow-covered soil. While wabi larity. All these Chinese cultural ele- ing it. This reminds me of a teaspoon generally represents quietness and emp- ments contributed immensely to wabi- used in Urasenke’s Beijing office. The tiness and carries a negative connota- sabi’s birth and growth. spoon was sculptured by Sun Pinghua tion, it also has a dynamic and positive Speaking of what the Chinese and named “Tea Popularity”, which, I side. Sen Genshitsu believes that wabi culture has contributed to the world, I think, has a deep implication. I believe is the most essential spirit of sado. would like to point out that it was during today’s tea gathering will remain in our Sen Genshitsu appears to be the thousands of years of civilization that memory forever. first to give such a comprehensive and the Chinese nation created and nurtured Peace is the pursuit and aspiration dialectical explanation of the Japanese its profound and splendid culture. The of all human beings. aesthetic concept of wabi. Chinese culture, like a river originating “Peace rises from a bowl of tea.” Sen Genshitsu also pointed out from a remote source, running long and This slogan, coined by Sen Genshitsu, that Ietaka’s poem compares the bright unbroken and constantly generating carries great weight. In the past few flowers with green grass in the snow- ripples of wisdom and thought, has had decades, he has made assiduous efforts covered fields and prefers grass to deep influence on the development of to promote sado in the world so that flowers. Genshitsu used the poem to il- the world. Its language, literature, arts, more people will share its values. In my lustrate the wabi-sabi sado proposed by science, technology, philosophy and view, the idea of “peace in a bowl of tea” Sen Rikyu. ethics are powerful in vitality, cohesion perfectly coincides with the “harmony” As the wabi-sabi aesthetic phi- and creativity. The splendid Chinese in sado’s four concepts of harmony, re- losophy featuring rustic simplicity is culture, imbued with the diligence and spect, purity and tranquility. found to share some thoughts with tra- wisdom of the Chinese people of all In my understanding, this har- ditional Chinese philosophy, Japan’s ethnic groups, has become a pearl in mony or peace exists between people, unique sado can be easily understood the treasure house of world cultures and within families, among countries and and accepted by Chinese. As I under- an integral part of human civilization. throughout the world. Today, the world stand it, the wabi-sabi idea of simplic- By opening its arms to other cultures is far from tranquil. People of all coun- ity can be attributed to the influence of and constantly enriching itself, the tries yearn for peace. Let’s work hand- China’s Book of Changes, Confucian- Chinese culture is injecting new vigor in-hand for the sound development ism, Laozi and Zhuangzi philosophy into human culture. of Sino-Japanese relations, for world and particularly Zen thought. During In this regard, China and Japan peace and for a better future for hu- the Tang (618-907) and Song (960- have cultural affinity. I think the inter- mankind.

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Celebrating 40 Years of China’s reform and India-China relations

Hemant Adlakha Professor of Chinese Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi, India

he popular Chinese saying an unprecedented development trajec- (remember, we in India did not have of- T “time flies like arrow” best tory. Moreover, there was yet another ficial exchanges of visitors between the reflects my four-decade association significant development taking place at two countries during the period 1962- with China and my China studies. the same time — that is, India and Chi- 77), we were shocked to learn from our More interestingly, this is also the na about to revive and restore normal visiting friends from China that there period of socialist China’s successful diplomatic and ambassadorial relations remained a huge gap between China trajectory of economic growth and following the disruption of highest- and the developed countries, and in social transformation. This remarkable level diplomatic ties as an unhappy some areas the development levels in Chinese success under the ongoing consequence of the territorial military China were lagging behind India, too. reform and opening-up policy started conflict a little over 16 years before. Of course, the ensuing 40 years 40 years ago. I often tell my Indian As China celebrates four decades have been a totally different story. Not students and friends from China the of miraculous and outstanding suc- only has China maintained a very im- wonderful coincidence of the launching cesses achieved since the implemen- pressive average annual growth rate of China’s reform policies at the Third tation of the reform and opening-up of 9 percent over the last four decades Plenum of the 11th Central Committee policies (the reform era), it is of huge — something unprecedented and un- of the Communist Party of China in importance to note that China’s social- paralleled both in Chinese and world December 1978 and my entry into ist market economic (SME) policy has history — but China has now emerged China studies around the same time. now exceeded three decades of the as the world’s second-biggest economy, I remember it was in July-August socialist planned economy by almost behind only the United States. Further- 1979 that I enrolled for an undergradu- 10 years. Full credit must be accorded more, China’s last 40 years of growth ate three-year degree to the CPC and its leadership for the in various aspects has been unbeliev- program at New Delhi’s Jawaharlal smooth and successful transformation ably fast when compared with what Nehru University. Within days of join- of Chinese society from the tumultu- the Western industrialized countries ing the university, I learned from my ous 10 years from the mid-1960s to the achieved over a couple of hundred teachers and senior students about mid-1970s into the steady and stable years. For example, China’s share in how China had only a few months ago reform era. As our opportunities to in- the world economy has risen from 2.7 started turning over a new leaf in its teract with visitors from the Peoples’ percent in the late 1970s to 16 percent history and had begun embarking upon Republic of China gradually increased today; China’s per-capita income has

34 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

grown exponentially from $100 to na’s diplomacy was to ensure a favor- the late 1980s and mid-1990s was a $8,000; and, last but not least, the CPC- able peaceful environment for realizing period during which China’s relations led China has lifted over 700 million the four modernizations. As a result, with almost all its neighbors had Chinese people out of poverty during China immediately embarked on the been described as “abnormal” and the four decades of the reform era. mammoth task of putting an end to the “troubled”. In sharp contrast, a major Internally, from the rural past policy of living in isolation and turnaround took place in the early to household contract responsibility began to establish normal diplomatic mid-1990s. China not only successfully system to the urban economic system relations with more and more countries, resolved its border conflicts with almost reform; from opening the coastal and and vigorously started putting in efforts all its neighbors (except India) but border areas to developing the western to improve existing relations with other went on to normalize bilateral relations inland region; and externally, from the countries, especially with its neighbors. (with the Soviet Union, Mongolia, establishment of the Shenzhen Special For example, the normalization of re- Myanmar and Vietnam, for example) Economic Zone to its accession to lations with the US was followed by and even established diplomatic the World Trade Organization, China China developing relations with many relations with the previously perceived has been gradually and consistently other nations. The normalization of re- “hostile” or “unfavorable” states such pursuing overhauling of the old lations with other nations was naturally as the Republic of Korea, Japan and economic structures and creating newer aimed at ensuring an external security Indonesia. What is most remarkable is market institutions. As pointed out environment which will in turn allow that eventually China emerged as the recently by the Chinese Ambassador to China to implement reforms internally largest trading partner of almost all its United Kingdom Liu Xiaoming, since and at the same time open up its mar- neighboring states, including India. adopting the reform and opening-up kets and economy to investments com- As Zhang Yunling and Zhou Fangyin policy, China has opened up a market of ing in from abroad. have opined in their recent book over $1.7 trillion to foreign investment, The first decade of the reform era Transformation of Foreign Affairs and and invested more than $1.2 trillion — the 1980s — was extremely crucial International Relations in China, 1978- overseas. In the past decade, with its for China in improving its relations 2008, relations between China and its strength in capital, market, technology with the US, the Soviet Union and all neighbors have greatly improved since and labor force, China on average the neighboring countries. Moreover, the early 1980s. The first two decades contributed 30 percent of the world Chinese diplomacy, in a new move, since the beginning of the reform era economic growth annually, sharing the took the initiative in expanding rela- “was the best period since the founding benefits of China’s development with tions with the ASEAN group of na- of New China in terms of relations with more countries. tions. China also showed astute dip- neighbors. This has been confirmed by Since 1978, as the focus of Chi- lomatic initiative by paying attention documents of the Chinese government.” na’s national strategy started shifting to improving relations with Japan. In The importance of improving co- toward economic growth and develop- August 1978, China signed a peace operation with South Asia, especially ment, the country realized the urgent and friendship treaty with Japan, thus restoring and maintaining normal, need to readjust its diplomatic strategy marking a new development in bilateral friendly relations with the largest na- and the foreign policy goals and priori- relations in its neighborhood. tion in South Asia, too, was a key stra- ties. As Deng Xiaoping had proclaimed Many international policy experts, tegic component of China’s new-look at the CPC’s 12th Party Congress in and especially China’s foreign policy neighborhood diplomacy. Long before October 1979, the major task of Chi- analysts, have observed that 1949 to the conception of the crucial connectiv-

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ity role the South Asian region possess- of sports, culture and education related Following the two foreign es for the success of the Belt and Road visits between the two neighbors. ministers’ visits to each other’s Initiative, China has all along known The sudden rise of goodwill and countries, the bilateral ties have the importance of its vital strategic friendly expectations as a result of the been progressively moving in a interests in the region. China shares acceleration of trade, cultural and dip- forward direction. Realistically several thousand kilometers of border lomatic exchanges between China and speaking, it is true that the unsettled with many countries in South Asia — India led to the official invitation from boundary continues to cast a shadow for example India, Nepal, Pakistan, Af- the foreign minister at the time, Huang over bilateral ties. Yet what is also ghanistan and Bhutan. Moreover, these Hua, to the Indian foreign minister to unrealistic is to deny that the past four countries make South Asia the only visit Beijing. Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the decades are best defined as a maturing neighboring region consisting of five of Indian counterpart wasted no time and of ties between the two giant Asian the total of China’s 14 near neighbors. immediately agreed to pay a visit to neighbors. Booming bilateral trade, I consider myself doubly lucky, as China. Vajpayee’s official visit in Feb- increasing people-to-people contact my entry into China studies happened ruary 1979 was the first such high-level and continuous exchanges of high- and at a time when both China and India visit by an Indian dignitary to China in top-level visits between the two nations realized the need for improving their three decades. The visit opened on an have remained a permanent feature of bilateral relationship in the late 1970s optimistic note and set in motion the their bilateral relationship. Following and early 1980s. Interestingly, inter- process of consolidation of bilateral re- the Indian prime minister’s visit to nal political changes taking place in lations. The success of Vajpayee’s visit China in 1988, the first top-level Indian both countries during the mid- to late- was acknowledged and duly rewarded leader visiting China in 35 years, the 1970s period could not have come at by Beijing. It announced that Huang next three decades (1988-2018) have a more opportune time. With the CPC would pay a reciprocal visit to India. witnessed a continuous flow of such new leadership regime’s main focus on Subsequently, Huang visited New Delhi top-level bilateral visits. Every top securing a favorable international envi- in June 1981. He was viewed in India PRC/CPC leader has visited India ronment on one hand, and on the other as not only a friend but also as modern during the past 30 years. Likewise, hand the coming to power of a new po- China’s most important diplomat. all successive Indian presidents and litical dispensation following the down- In a 2010 tribute to Huang, who prime ministers have visited Beijing. fall of the Indira Gandhi government in had just died, one of India’s national As for the current leaders of the two 1977, the ground was already laid for newspapers wrote: “He played a countries, both President Xi Jinping the two countries to improve bilateral key role in pushing forward the (2014, 2016) and Premier Li Keqiang relations that had been frozen since the normalization process. Huang was the (2013) have been to India on official unfortunate territorial conflict in 1962. face of China’s diplomacy during the visits. Indian Prime Minister Narendra The first initiative the two nations took difficult 70s and 80s, serving as Zhou Modi (2015, 2017) and India’s toward normalizing was a trade agree- Enlai’s right-hand man. In 1981, Huang previous president, Pranab Mukherjee ment the two signed in 1977. Though was sent to New Delhi by China’s (2016) have also paid official visits the volume of the trade pact signed was paramount leader, Deng Xiaoping. to Beijing. In the coming weeks, the too small to be of any major signifi- Huang’s visit was a landmark and an prime minister, foreign minister and cance, the far-reaching impact of the important milestone as India and China defense minister are scheduled to visit beginning that was made resulted into worked to normalize ties which had China. This is a clear manifestation almost a nonstop flow of the exchange been frozen after the 1962 war.” of the fact that in spite of certain

36 Voice of Friendship No. 192 June 2018

unavoidable irritants— such as India refusing to endorse and participate in 2018 China (Shenyang)- the Belt and Road Initiative and China consistently objecting to India’s entry into the NSG — both countries are Hungary culture exchange committed to building bilateral ties on common ground and working toward week a success resolving existing differences to base their relationship on mutual respect and sensitivity to each other’s concerns, Shenyang Friendship Association interests and aspirations. Finally, based on my personal experiences, I have numerous stories rom May 8 to 12, the Shenyang the Shenyang CPC Committee Pub- to tell about how, during my visits to F People’s Association for licity Department, joined more than China in the last four decades, I have Friendship with Foreign Countries 100 Shenyang citizens in attending the been deeply touched by the friendly held the 2018 China (Shenyang) opening ceremony. At the ceremony, attitude and warm hospitality the Chi- Hungary Culture Exchange Week in the Shenyang 1905 Re-Creative Space was nese people have showered upon me. I northeastern Chinese city. The event granted the title of Shenyang People’s believe I have been extremely lucky to was organized under the framework Platform for Friendship and Exchange enjoy instant rapport and bonding with of Belt and Road Initiative. With the with Foreign Countries. my friends in China. I strongly hold popularization of the Belt and Road After the opening ceremony, the view that the depth and the strength concept, exchanges and cooperation SYPAFFC spoke with Ambassador of the centuries-old cultural affinity between China and Hungary have Pesti. Both sides reached a preliminary between our two peoples will always unfolded at an accelerated pace. Both understanding about carrying out keep us bound together. I recall and sides are attaching greater importance cooperation and exchanges in quote the following beautiful lines which to cultural communication, which medical science (especially the Tagore wrote, almost as if paying rich is believed to be vital for enhancing influenza vaccine), tourism charter tribute to the people of China from his mutual understanding. flights, modern logistics and sister- deathbed: The culture exchange week in- city relationships. Pesti said that cluded four themed activities — Hun- thanks to the long-standing friendship “Once I went to the land of China, garian Artists Visiting Shenyang, between China and Hungary, the Those whom I had not met Chinese-Hungarian Artistic Exchange, Hungarian people are very much Put the mark of friendship on my Hungarian Culture Photo Exhibition interested in having their children forehead and Hungarian Culture & Food Week. study in Chinese-Hungarian bilingual Calling me their own”. Hungarian Ambassador to China Mate schools in Hungary. He told his hosts Pesti; SYPAFFC President Chan- that his country had set up a work (Rabindranath Tagore wrote this gyi; Feng Shouquan, a member of team for implementing the Belt and poem, called On My Birthday on Feb the Standing Committee of Shenyang Road Initiative. He said that before 21, 1941, a few months before his Committee of the Communist Party of he left for China, his country’s prime death.) China; and Feng Shouquan, head of minister and economic minister had

37 Between Friendship Cities

asked him to convey their hope for a further widening of cooperation and exchanges between the two countries at Chengdu-Azerbaijan melody the regional level. They also hoped that Hungary would exceed other Central and Eastern European countries in rang out on Belt and Road local-level cooperation and exchanges with China, Pesti said. During the culture exchange week, Chengdu Friendship Association officials from the Hungarian embassy, as well as Hungarian artists, chefs, folk n the evening of March 16, “capital of music” are no strangers to art craftsmen and performance troupes, O the CCEC building on Tianfu international music. Since its opening carried out various forms of cultural Avenue was illuminated as brightly in 2017, the Cloud Music Hall has exchange with the artists and residents as in daytime: a Central Asian-style welcomed music masters from Russia, of Shenyang. The locals had close- mugham music concert was going France and Poland. But this was the range contact with Hungarian culture, on, with string instrument melodies first time Azerbaijani traditional music attending a cultural salon, tasting echoing to exciting drumbeats. The had been heard in Chengdu. the country’s food and experiencing nearly two-hour musical performance Mugham is Azerbaijan’s other cultural activities at the 1905 took the 700 members of the audience traditional music genre, and has a Re-Creative Space and Shenyang Le to the foot of Caucasus Mountains rigorous structure. Having absorbed the Meridien Hotel. beside the Caspian Sea, where they tunes, rhythms and performing skills of The craftsmen from Hungry and enthusiastically embraced the “country troubadour ballads lauding heroes, the their local counterparts exchanged of fire” — Azerbaijan. genre has rich historical and cultural ideas, while demonstrating their respec- Deeply engrossed in the connotations. The eight Azerbaijani tive handicraft skills. Hungarian chefs music along with the audience musicians who performed at this event offered food cooked in Hungarian style were Azerbaijani Ambassador to are famous in Azerbaijan. The two- to give locals a taste of Eastern Europe- China Akram Zeynalli and his wife. hour performance included works an cuisine. When visiting the Imperial Following his initial trip to Chengdu fusing traditional mugham with jazz Palace Museum, Laolongkou Liquor in September 2017 to attend meetings and traditional opera selections. There Factory and Shengjing Grand Theatre of the United Nations World Tourism was even an Azerbaijani version of and strolling along the beautiful bank Organization, Akram now visited Colorful Clouds Chasing the Moon, a of the Hun River, the Hungarian guests Chengdu for the second time to Chinese piece tailor-made for Chengdu marveled at Shenyang’s beautiful showcase traditional Azerbaijani locals. Excited by the rhythmic music, scenery and urban development. They mugham music. The music broke down audience members snapped their fingers expressed admiration for the city’s cul- cultural barriers, promoted people-to- and swung their bodies as if they were tural richness and the local people’s people exchanges and enhanced mutual part of an Azerbaijani carnival. hospitality. They said they would tell benefits and collaboration. “Seeing that so may people are fond of Azerbaijani music, I am their families and friends about what 100th anniversary of the founding of extremely happy and I do hope to they had seen and felt in Shenyang so the Republic of Azerbaijan that more Hungarian people will be- make music a channel to enable more come acquainted with the city. Actually, residents of this people in Sichuan to gain insight into

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Azerbaijan,” Akram said. music in Chengdu is like the trade collaboration will be further After the concert, Akram met resounding steam whistle of the Trans- strengthened with the opening of the journalists for a merry interview. Eurasia Chengdu-Europe train passing southern line of the Chengdu-Europe Azerbaijan, situated at the crossroads from east to west on the new Silk Road. Express Rail,” Akram said. of Eastern Europe and West Asia, is an Azerbaijan is situated on the He pointed out that Azerbaijan important country along the Belt and route, and the Trans-Caspian East- was one of the first to respond Road routes, he said, noting that 2018 West Transit Corridor is closely linked positively to the Belt and Road marks the 100th anniversary of the to the Belt and Road Initiative. The Initiative. He said he was very founding of the Azerbaijan Democratic Chengdu-Europe Express Rail plans to optimistic about cooperation with Republic. Akram told the reporters his add a southern line this year, and Baku Sichuan in agriculture, industry, country will host a series of celebration will be one of the stops. This transport science, education and tourism. He activities in China. Magical Azerbaijani connectivity will boost economic and invited enterprises of Chengdu and Music in Sichuan is the program’s first trade exchanges. Sichuan to invest in Azerbaijan and stop. Azerbaijani enterprises launch startups. Why was Chengdu chosen as the participated in the 98th China Food & To facilitate personnel exchanges first stop? Chengdu, as enchanting as Drinks Fair for the first time this year and transportation logistics, Akram paradise, should be accompanied by in Chengdu, adding new international hopes a Chengdu-Baku direct air route music, Akram said. “I think Sichuan elements. will be opened and that it will help is one of the most beautiful provinces “It is a positive sign, and I more Azerbaijani cities find Sister Cit- in China, with such an agreeable believe bilateral economic and ies in Chengdu. climate and environment. I feel very comfortable in Sichuan.” During the visit to Sichuan, Akram witnessed the tremendous development of the province and saw how happy the citizens of Chengdu were. “I would like to send warm congratulations to the people of Sichuan, as you are blessed with such a good living environment. Wherever I went, I found beautiful scenery. I felt that I was living in a paradise on Earth. ”

Baku to be a stop on the southern line of Chengdu-Europe Express Rail Actually, Azerbaijan’s high opinion of Chengdu partly stems from Chengdu-Europe Express Rail Azerbaijani music performers operations. The sound of Azerbaijani

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Israel’s consul-general reluctant to leave

Mo Yi

“Chengdu has sufficient strength nearly every corner of Chengdu and inclusive city,” he said. to attract an increasing number of are able to speak idiomatic Sichuan Lati often attended forums and international trend-setters. I have dialect. lectures and held promotion events at already become a genuine Chengdu “My daughter attends kindergarten universities. Now, he updates his We- trend-setter.” in Chengdu, where she studies with Chat Moments every day to watch the —Amir Lati, Israel consul- Chengdu kids and can chat with them rich and varied lives of Chengdu resi- general in Chengdu in Sichuan dialect. She actually speaks dents. People of different professions better Sichuan dialect than me,” he and ages are participating in the city’s Amir Lati, Israel’s consul- said. transformation. general in Chengdu, has worked and Besides the comfortable life Chengdu, which is racing against lived in the city for three and a half Chengdu offers, the opening of a time to build itself into a major years. From his perspective, Chengdu, Chengdu-Israel direct air route is Lati’s international communication center, which is situated at the golden other primary concern. has good reason to want international junction of China’s Belt and Road “It is my sincere hope that a trendsetters such as Amir Lati. trade routes and the Yangtze River Chengdu-Israel direct air route will go Seventeen countries have been economic zone, presents unlimited live during my tenure,” he said. “At given official approval to set up opportunities and offers international present, Hainan Airlines and Sichuan consulates in Chengdu, making it a talent golden opportunities to realize Airlines have proposed to open a top choice for any foreign country to self-fulfillment. Chengdu-Tel Aviv air route. We are establish a presence in western China. Supporting Chengdu’s booming looking forward to an early launch.” Chengdu is third in China for number economy are its agreeable living Lati is confident that the direct of consulates, behind only Shanghai conditions, including world-class flight will greatly boost exchanges and and Guangzhou. medical care and education. At present, collaboration between Southwest China Chengdu, which is known for a fairly large number of foreigners are and Israel. being both traditional and modern, studying and living in Chengdu. They It is worth mentioning that has forged international sister city are reluctant to leave once they have WeChat became one of the important relationships with 34 cities and has settled. ways for Lati to gain deeper insight 51 friendly and cooperative partners “I was supposed to have a three- into Chengdu. If you connect to his around the globe. Extensive, in-depth year stay in Chengdu,” Lati said. WeChat timeline, you quickly get to and multifaceted collaboration have “However, I voluntarily applied to know his current work even if you been carried out in the economy, extend the tenure for another year, don’t look up media reports. When science, technology, culture and as there are still many important Lati came to Chengdu, there were only education. cooperative projects to implement and a few locals in his circle of WeChat “I am a Chengdu trend-setter my family members and I have become friends. However, there are currently reluctant to leave,” Lati says. fond of life in Chengdu.” nearly 3,000. His Chengdu roots have grown Over the three and half years, “Having worked in Chengdu for deep. He is a classic example of the Lati and his family have traveled to several years, I find it to be an open and settlement of international migrants.

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Normalized education cooperation

7th “Picture Yourself in Perth” concluded

Chengdu Friendship Association

en middle school students from College, Phoenix Academy and days, I gradually discovered the T Chengdu, China, went on an eight- Canning College. The visits deepened profoundness and passion of Perth in day study tour in Perth, Australia, their understanding. They also went my contacts with different teachers in in February as part of a sister city sightseeing to some scenic spots, the colleges. program. including the Aquarium of Western Our exchanges in Perth are From Feb 6 to 13, the Chinese Australia, Caversham Wildlife Park cultural interaction and integration. We students, winners of the 7th Picture and Elizabeth Quay, and were deeply showcased the charm of our traditional Yourself in Perth photography contest, impressed by what they saw. culture and got a feel of the life and visited local universities and had fun at The study tour was a rich customs of Oceania. Gradually, a tourist attractions in Perth, Chengdu’s experience and full of surprises. Let’s cultural link was established. I also international sister city in Australia. listen to the students in their own harvested precious experiences and Perth Mayor Lisa Scaffidi and heartfelt words. mental maturity. Phil Payne, executive director of Study The Perth journey was full of love Perth, cordially received the Chinese Lin Xianhang and surprises. Although the road of students at City Hall. They expressed Touching down on the alien land life is long and the beautiful memories hope that the study tour would at the very beginning, all I felt was may become intangible, the genuine further strengthen youth exchanges, its lonely, mysterious serenity. The experience of growing up will take root consolidate the regular Chengdu-Perth night sky was dark with only dimmed and flourish. education collaboration and enhance yellow light from the crescent moon people-to-people friendship between in the distance. I was tired but in Jin Yongqi the two cities. high spirits, and when I went into the The people in Perth lead an During their stay in Perth, the University of West Australia, I saw the agreeable and comfortable life. Most students visited the University of other side of Perth — wit and humor. of them are passionate, kindhearted Western Australia and Murdoch At this university, man and nature co- and always ready to help those in need, University. They attended classes exist in harmony, and the atmosphere even a stranger. Once we got lost in and exchanged ideas with the local of rigorous scholarship is infused with a downtown area and a Perth citizen students and teachers at Taylors some mischievous joy. In the following went out of his way to help us find

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the pharmacy we looked for. He even accompanied us to various streets and Chengdu accelerated its alleys to look for satisfactory souvenirs. The school atmosphere and development as an important the friendly attitude of the teachers of Perth exemplified their teaching methodology. Here, you are on an equal center for exchanges in China footing with the teachers: You can call them by their first names; they can talk Chengdu Friendship Association and laugh with you and will respond to any question you pose. However, they would not give you the answer. Chengdu’s Foreign and Overseas trend of world economic development, Only by exploring by yourself can you Chinese Affairs Office offered its full the city has begun a drive to integrate acquire the knowledge. support to strengthen Chengdu’s profile itself into the Belt and Road Initiative on the international stage. at great depth, banking on the country’s Wang Zirui growing strength. It is taking advantage Perhaps the most rewarding At the 19th National Congress of its position as a major geographical experience was the meeting with the of the Communist Party of China hub in western China and using domestic mayor. In the afternoon of our second in October 2017, it was agreed that and international market resources to day in Perth, we went to the Council the country should strive for new accelerate its effort to turn itself into an House, where we met with the mayor. achievements in opening-up on all economic highland in China’s opening- We presented her with gifts brought fronts. Openness means progress, oriented development. The second from Chengdu and chatted with her. We while isolation leaves one behind. plenary session of the 13th CPC Chengdu went to the wildlife park on Sunday and China will not close its door to the Committee decided that Chengdu should discovered cute kangaroos and koalas. outside world; instead, the door will be give special attention to improving We also had contact with the other opened wider. We should take the Belt international exchanges and intensifying unique animals of western Australia, and Road Initiative as a priority, give external exchanges and cooperation, so such as the wombat and some birds. equal emphasis to “bringing in” and as to build itself into an important center I was reluctant to say goodbye to “going global”, follow the principle of international exchange in China. Perth. The agreeable climate and little of achieving shared growth through Facing the new mission in the new animals unafraid of people are the most discussion and collaboration and era, the Chengdu Foreign and Overseas unforgettable experiences. I attended so increase openness and cooperation in Chinese Affairs Office is embarking on many classes here and gained an insight building innovative capacity. With these a new journey. It is considering: into the lively classroom atmosphere efforts, we hope to break new ground • How it can integrate into the and friendly teachers. in opening China further through links Belt and Road by pushing more local Here I would like to offer my running eastward and westward, across enterprises of the new economic sincere thanks to all the teachers who land and over the sea. frontiers to go global and showing to organized and facilitated the study Chengdu has determined that the outside world the advantages of tour and gave us such a precious opening-up should be conducted on a Chengdu in opening-up and cooperation. opportunity to visit Australia. I will be deeper, more comprehensive and more • How it can make use of back some day. pragmatic basis. While following the multilayered international cooperation

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mechanisms to “bring in” more major Chengdu” workstations in 16 countries the Czech Republic, Poland, Mexico international projects and thus help the — Australia, France, Cambodia, and Colombia, built international city develop new economic frontiers. Malaysia, the United States, Japan, exchange platforms for Chengdu and • How it can promote the Thailand, Singapore, Mexico, Pakistan, undertook matchmaking for more high- building of an international hub for UAE, Poland, Russia, Portugal, Canada quality cooperative programs on new exchanges and intensify its exchanges and Indonesia. These workstations economic frontiers. and cooperation with international have effectively served Chengdu’s Sister Cities by choosing most suitable enterprises in their business of going Bringing in more international industries for the cooperation. global, greatly promoting Chengdu’s high-quality resources In the course of building an international influence and profile. important center for international Chengdu’s Qiaomengyuan project At present, fostering new capability exchanges in China, the Chengdu fully uses the advantages created by to develop new economic frontiers Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Chengdu-rooted overseas Chinese is being enthusiastically pursued by Office has drawn a comprehensive road to serve China’s major development the whole world. Every country is map for more in-depth and pragmatic strategies. The project has held six working hard to gain ground. Chengdu operations. talent policy promotion meetings — in is also following the trend, trying to Houston, New York, Seattle, Toronto, build on the momentum. To attain this Blaze new trails for Chengdu’s Sydney and Lyon — with the focus goal, Chengdu needs to derive force frontier enterprises to go global placed on encouraging innovation and from international programs on new Chengdu, situated at the junction business startups. These moves helped economic frontiers. The Chengdu of Belt and Road trade routes and the forge a close connection between Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Yangtze River economic zone, has overseas professional talent and Office attaches great importance to been presented with historic golden Chengdu municipality. bringing in international exchange opportunities. The Chengdu Foreign The Chengdu global promotion activities, important international and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office is conference, targeting places with conferences and international VIPs, a trailblazer in the city’s integration into vibrant economies such as the Hong which in turn become incentives Belt and Road construction. At present, Kong Special Administrative Region, for international economic frontiers it is implementing the strategies it has mapped out to help Chengdu’s enterprises on new economic frontiers to go global. Actively responding to the Belt and Road Initiative, a series of activities themed “Panda Chengdu” are underway in the United Arab Emirates, the Philippines, Australia, Italy, Hungary, Mozambique and South Africa to propagate Chengdu’s local culture and introduce enterprises that are pushing the economic frontier. The city has set up “Overseas 2018 World Police and Fire Games Federation Chengdu Meeting

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programs to settle in the city. Kavanagh; South African Ambassador and cooperation reflects its opening With its global vision, the office to China Dolana F. Msimang; Israeli concept and mindset. In 2017, the has made every effort to help the city Ambassador Zvi Heifetz; Dr. James office successively hosted multifaceted bring in more international new eco- Watson, Nobel Prize laureate and DNA international exchange activities, nomic frontiers programs, including the double helix structure discoverer; Lukas including the 12th Thai Festival first Houston Technology Center China Kaucky, first deputy foreign minister of Week, the 2017 Chengdu International Center; the newly established City the Czech Republic; former chancellor Civil Servant Summer Program for University of Hong Kong Chengdu Re- of Germany Gerhard Schroder, who Sister Cities, the 2017 Innovation search Institute; an important program is also vice-president of the board Forum for Mayors of International of Sino-France medical cooperation; of supervisors of Herrenknecht AG; Sister Cities of Chengdu, the 2017 the Chengdu Brain Research Institute and Nobel Prize laureate Aaron Chengdu International Sister Cities program in cooperation with Canada; Ciechanover. They all spoke highly of Youth Music Festival, the Third India- and the Malaysia National Pavilion in Chengdu’s development. China (Chengdu) International Yoga the Shuangliu Free Trade Zone. In ad- Festival, the 2017 Chengdu-Europe dition, the China-US 2 Plus 2 Clean International Sister Cities’ Culture Season, the 2017 Consultative Energy Forum was held in Chengdu in industrial map Conference of the International 2017, and the China-Swiss low-carbon Advisory Board of the Chengdu city program has formally entered the Today’s Chengdu is working hard Municipal Government and the 2017 implementation stage. to make international exchanges more Swiss Week in China. The Chengdu office also made ef- convenient and frequent and build Thanks to the diligent work of forts to promote international exchanges itself as an example of Chinese inland the office, Chengdu’s profile has been and important international conferences. economic openness and a gateway for greatly raised on the international The efforts have reaped fruitful out- international exchanges with a global stage. The city has won a number of comes. The Eighth East Asia Local and vision and international standard. international honors, including the 2017 Regional Governments Conference; the The year 2017 saw rapid Award for Best International Stand at Forum on Qiaomengyuan Innovative expansion of Chengdu’s circle of the New Zealand National Agricultural Development and International Incuba- friends. The number of Chengdu’s Exhibition and the WeGO Prize for tor Industry; the 2017 BRICS Friend- international Sister Cities and Special Contribution. It received the ship Cities and Local Governments friendly and cooperative cities rose flag of the World Police & Fire Games Cooperation Forum; the China-South to 85. Among those were three newly in the United States, which confirms Africa Local Governments Dialogue; added international Sister Cities and officially that Chengdu will be the host and the China-Arab Civilization and 11 friendly and cooperative ones, of the 18th WPFG in 2019. De-Extreming Roundtable were held in including La Plata, Argentina; Maputo, The Chengdu Foreign and Over- Chengdu in a continuous stream. Mozambique; Valencia, Spain; Patras, seas Chinese Affairs Office tapped The Chengdu Foreign and Greece; and Bangkok, Thailand. In the international resources to the full and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office has meantime, the Chengdu Foreign and contributed to the opening of new inter- made unremitting efforts to attract more Overseas Chinese Affairs Office added national air routes, bringing Chengdu international VIPs’ attention to the more points on the international Sister closer to the rest of the world. New di- development of Chengdu’s economic Cities industrial map. rect routes include Chengdu-Los Ange- frontiers. These VIPs included Irish The heightened level of les, Chengdu-Addis Ababa, Chengdu- Ambassador to China John Paul Chengdu’s international exchanges Auckland and Chengdu-New York.

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