On September 25th, the Schuman Roundabout, site of the European Commission's headquarters, was turned into a venue of ”China Day”. A lot of local residents were attracted to sample Chinese culture.
The Schuman Roundabout boasts unique status in the EU headquarters as it is surrounded by the buildings of the European Commission, the European Council and the European External Action Service (EEAS). Under the framework of European Week of Sport, the “China Day” events were held with the support of the European Commission for Education and Culture and the Administration of the Schuman Roundabout.
Not only the lion and dragon dance, traditional Chinese craftsmanship of woodblock printing, but also modern technology of virtual reality and panoramic movie have been staged at the events. Moreover, some adorable giant panda dolls were designed to mimic the mascots of the 2022 Winter Olympic Games. During the night, the audience applauded warmly when the 3D 360 degree light show that took people on a virtual tour of the Temple of Heaven in Beijing was showing up at the Schuman Roundabout.
The viewers were enchanted by promo videos of China and 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic Games, as well as clips showcasing the achievements of seven decades.
Besides, many foreigners expressed their understanding and appreciation for Chinese culture. The Belgian Health Qigong Association presented a wonderful and vivid Tai Chi performance. Pierre de Coquerel, head of the association, said that his wife and daughter were major roles in Qigong show. He has visited China for many times and the whole family have deep affection for Chinese culture.
Han Flintrop, a Belgian composer and professor of Lier Academy of Music, performed the music piece “The Silk Road”. He expressed that the exchanges between China and Europe demand the spirit of Marco Polo and peoples involved in the silk road should further enhance exchanges.
Sports is one of important part of “China Day” activities. Mbo Mpenza，who was a national football player, came to the scene and had exchanges with Chinese and foreign personnel on football skills. He hoped to visit China if possible in the future to promote exchanges between China and Belgium on football.
“China and Europe, as two civilizations, has been contributing for human development and progress since the ancient time,” said Zhang Ming, head of the Chinese Mission to the EU, adding that the long history and traditional culture hold the key to addressing increasing challenges and risks in the world. Today, we replicated the Chinese building of the Temple of Heaven through high-end technology. Its beauty of peace and concept of sustainable development conform to major trend of China-Europe cooperation.
Zhang Ming said that China is willing to join hands with Europe to pursue a faster, higher and stronger China-Europe relation.