Chinese diplomat in U.S. encourages more people-to-people exchanges

A Chinese diplomat in the U.S. has encouraged more people-to-people exchanges between the two countries, saying the foundation of China-U.S. relations lies in the people, and cultural communication is an important bridge for mutual understanding, respect and commonality.

Xu Xueyuan, minister of the Chinese Embassy in the U.S., made the remarks while attending a cultural event hosted by the embassy in the U.S. on Thursday.

The event "Evening at the Chinese Embassy" was held in partnership with the local organization "Things to Do DC." More than 200 local community members gathered to experience traditional Chinese culture, watch cultural performances and taste Chinese delicacies.

In her opening speech, Xu said that Chinese people pursue a harmonious social relationship. She quoted Confucius as saying, "Gentlemen pursue harmony without uniformity," which she said explains why Chinese people advocate seeking common ground and allow for differences in their daily lives.

Chinese people also seek a harmonious relationship between humans and nature, namely, "People's well-being must come first" and "All creatures are equal," Xu continued, adding that these ideas are visible in China's efforts to protect the environment and pursue sustainable development.

Xu also said that the Chinese value a harmonious international relationship, which is apparent in China's foreign policy that advocates all countries, big or small, are equal members of the international community and fellow partners in building a community with a shared future for mankind.

She underscored the importance of enhancing mutual understanding and seeking more common ground between China and the U.S., hoping the cultural event will encourage more young students to explore more about China and its ongoing efforts for modernization.

"We also encourage you to travel to China in the future. You will find an open and prospering country of hope and promise," Xu said.

During the event, young diplomats introduced Chinese tea culture to attendees. A tea master explained how to make tea with traditional teaware, and invited guests to try tea making and tasting.

Musicians from the Washington Chinese Traditional Orchestra introduced traditional Chinese instruments including the guzheng, pipa, bamboo flute, dulcimer, and erhu, and performed folk melodies such as "A Joyful Day," "A Heavenly Road," and "Flowers and Full Moon."

Students from the U.S. Wushu Academy gave martial arts performances, garnering a lot of applause from the audience. Li Peng, who combines Sichuan opera face-changing with magic, brought the atmosphere to a climax.

In the calligraphy booth, guests learned about China's "Four Treasures of the Study," and tried writing their Chinese names and words for good wishes. In the Han-style clothing booth, they tried on traditional costumes and took pictures. In the food booth, they tasted Peking Duck, stir-fried garlic chili prawns, Yangzhou fried rice and other Chinese dishes.

Attendees also posed for group photos, expressed their keen interest in Chinese culture, and praised the event as an enjoyable and memorable experience.

(With input from Xinhua)