By Li Zheng
2024 marks the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations and the China-France Cultural Tourism Year, celebrating not only a milestone in the deep friendship and cooperation between the two nations but also the infusion of new vitality into global cultural exchanges.
On Nov 10, the cultural exchange event “Chine-France Un Face-à-Face Culturel” concluded, attended by 70 guests, including 42 international friends from 17 countries and regions. The event was jointly organized by the Hangzhou International Nongovernmental Science & Technology Exchange Center, Hangzhou Global Youth Talent Community, and Zhejiang University International Joint College (Haining International Campus) International Students Association, with support from Hangzhou Alliance Française, China Academy of Art Nantes Design Joint College, and ITC.
Han Junqi, director of the Hangzhou Global Youth Talent Community Office, reviewed the ten breakthroughs of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the highlights of Chinese culture, the contributions of Hangzhou’s youth Olympic marathon athletes, and the impact of AI-driven innovations on the Games.
Professor Joseph, Vice President of the China Academy of Art Nantes Design Joint College, introduced his students’ acclaimed work Black Myth: Wukong and discussed the use of Möbius-inspired visual language in various films.
French navigator, aviator, and writer Christian Fardel showcased his books at the event, attracting young attendees eager for his autograph. Fascinated by the 8,000-year-old canoe found at Xianghu Lake--the first known Chinese boat--Fardel traveled from France to settle by the lakeside in Hangzhou.
During the Sino-French Youth Roundtable, Chinese and French participants shared cultural experiences, discussing various communication styles, culinary traditions, and ways of life, and offering insights on deepening Sino-French friendship.
Guests explored a Sino-French memory wall, poetry displays, book exhibits, and a tea-tasting area, while enjoying traditional music that blended the flavors and sounds of both nations.
Jiang Xiaobin, director of the Hangzhou International Nongovernmental Science & Technology Exchange Center, stated that science serves as a link to introduce and recommend outstanding young overseas talents, build a bridge of friendship between Chinese and foreign youth, and promote the use of overseas talents to support local economic and social development. “We hope that the application of science and technology will contribute to the vigorous development of various fields such as culture and art.”