Cultural exhibition on Chinese characters proves a draw in Paris

The exhibition "The Code of Civilization in Chinese Characters" has attracted many visitors to the Chinese Cultural Center in Paris. The show, which opened last week and will run until May 29, is part of China-France 2024 Year of Culture and Tourism.

The opening ceremony was attended by nearly 100 distinguished Chinese and French guests, including government officials, artists, and cultural academics.

Li Xikui, vice president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, said at the ceremony Chinese characters were a key symbol of Chinese civilization and an essential carrier of its heritage. "The formation and development of the Chinese nation has always been closely linked to the use of Chinese characters," he added. He also highlighted the long-standing cultural exchanges between China and France, two great civilizations that support and respect each other.

Gao Yong, the mayor of Anyang city in Henan Province, stressed that Chinese characters remain a vital symbol of Chinese civilization. "Anyang, focusing on the unique cultural symbol of 'oracle bone inscriptions,' is committed to using Chinese characters to tell the story of China, promote the international exchange and dissemination of oracle bone inscriptions, and shape a new landmark of Chinese culture," he said.  

During the exhibition, Didier Benaim from the Academy of Fine Arts at the Institut de France highlighted the richness and complexity of Chinese characters, which reflect the thoughts, civilization, and soul of a nation. He explained that the characters tell stories, traditions, and philosophies that span thousands of years.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. The exhibition attracted many French visitors, with many remarking that Chinese culture, specifically characters, symbolize the fruitful cooperation and cultural dialogue between the two nations.