China Cultural University Show: Event aims to boost cultural cooperation between China and Egypt

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02:29

Cairo University has staged a show focusing on Chinese culture, as part of its efforts to expand awareness of the subject among young Egyptians. CGTN's Yasser Hakim went to check it out.

The musical is performed by a group of students from Jinan University.

SONG BO, EDUCATIONAL COUNSELLOR CHINESE EMBASSY IN CAIRO "They're coming here arranged by headquarters in Beijing to mix with students here. It gives Chinese college students as well as local Egyptian students a chance to work together. One is to give them a chance to know each other -- to learn about Chinese folklore dancing, song and culture heritage."

Cairo University is the only higher education facility in Egypt that hosts a Confucius Institute.

REHAB MAHMOUD CONFUCIUS INSTITUTE MANAGER, CAIRO UNIVERSITY "Culture is the most important bond between people from different nations. Cairo University is keen to expose its students to different cultures. And Chinese culture is very rich and diverse. A show like this is unique because it's a group of Chinese students performing for young Egyptians."

The main hall at Cairo University was packed to capacity with students from a range of faculties.

"It's important -- especially as I'm learning Mandarin. Watching a Chinese cultural show in real life is far more enriching than just reading about it."

"I really enjoyed the performance. It's new to me and I learnt a lot about Chinese culture and the country."

Officials have promised there will be more shows like this in the future as part of the ongoing cultural cooperation between the two nations.

YASSER HAKIM CAIRO, EGYPT "The high demand for the show is a sign of the growing Chinese influence in the country and Egyptians' keenness to know more about Chinese history and culture. Yasser Hakim CGTN Cairo."