The 2026 UN Chinese Language Day and the sixth China Media Group (CMG) Chinese Language Video Festival were successfully held on April 17 at the Palace of Nations in Geneva.

Co-hosted by CMG, China's Permanent Mission to the UN in Geneva, and the UN Office at Geneva, the event brought together over 350 guests from more than 30 countries.

In a video address, CMG President Shen Haixiong highlighted how Chinese characters serve as a cultural code for Chinese civilization, adding that CMG is committed to promoting cultural exchange through technology and creative programming.

Tatiana Valovaya, director-general of the UN Office at Geneva, called the Chinese language a key bridge between China and the world, noting this year's theme of "Wisdom" reflects the UN's shared mission.

Chinese Ambassador Jia Guide emphasized that wisdom is the driving force behind civilizations, national development and global cooperation.

The event featured interactive sessions such as "Seeing Words as Faces," where young diplomats and students shared personal stories about Chinese characters. A highlight was student Katia Poli's reflection on the character "Yuan" (destiny or connection).

Attendees also enjoyed screenings of CMG cultural programs, calligraphy displays, intangible cultural heritage demonstrations and AI-powered interactive installations.

The UN established Chinese Language Day in 2010 on the day of "Grain Rain," one of the 24 solar terms in the Chinese lunar calendar. This year marks the sixth consecutive edition of the joint festival.