Dozens of international journalists from over 30 countries including Hungary, Central African Republic, Cambodia and Nigeria on Friday visited Qufu, the hometown of Confucius in east China's Shandong Province for an immersive cultural exchange, anchored in Confucian philosophy. Performers, dressed in flowing silken robes, reenact a 2,500-year-old welcoming ceremony in Nishan, the birthplace of Confucius. Visitors from around the world marvel at the experience, not just watching, but actively participating in this ancient ritual.
Confucius (551-479 BC), an educator and philosopher, founded Confucianism, a school of thought that deeply influenced later generations. He was also the first Chinese person to set up private schools and enroll students from all walks of life. The ideas of Confucius, including rule by virtue, self-discipline in appeasing others and harmony in diversity, have been central to personal, family and social life in China. Confucianism is seeing a revival as China draws on its traditional culture and develops its vision, concepts, values and ethics to make them keep pace with the times. The Analects of Confucius, or Lunyu in Chinese, is a renowned collection of teachings and ideas from the ancient Chinese philosopher. "I think it's a very interesting experience (the Confucius way of life) nowadays when we are constantly wired to the internet, connecting with the rest of the world, we sometimes might miss things that are happening very close to us because we are looking thousands of kilometers away," said Lucia Hubinska, a lecturer from Slovakia. "I feel so peaceful here, so far away from some negative energy in my city. I just want to stay here, near the lake, feel the nature, and live with the nature. He said something very important about learning: that it's always important to keep forward and continue to learn. It helps me a lot," Ana Vojinovic, Head of Communication Radio at the Television of Republika Srpska, also stated. Several journalists praised the performances, highlighting the tour's ability to offer unique experiences and deepen their appreciation of Confucian culture.
"Actually it's said that Confucius only lived here for three years. This is not very long for us, but we want to create an immersive performance for our audience," said Wang Yu, a tour guide, at Nishan Sacred Land.
Global journalists unite in Confucius’ birthplace for cultural exchange
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
