#ChineseCulture #Brussels #Jiangsu #Belgium #GrandCanal

Celebration of Chinese Culture in Brussels

On June 13, 2025, Brussels became a vibrant hub of cultural exchange as it hosted the opening ceremony of "An Encounter with Chinese Culture: Jiangsu Week of the Grand Canal Culture." This event marked a significant celebration, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union.

The festivities were a collaborative effort by the Chinese embassy to the EU, the Jiangsu Provincial Government Information Office, and the Jiangsu International Culture Association. Local residents and cultural experts alike showed tremendous enthusiasm for the event, which aimed to foster mutual appreciation and understanding between the two cultures.

One of the highlights of the opening ceremony was a collaborative performance that combined Jiangsu’s traditional Wuxi Opera with elements of Belgian surrealist art, showcasing the talent and creativity of artists from both regions. The show captivated the audience, drawing connections between the distinct yet enchanting artistic expressions of both cultures.

A standout feature of the ceremony was an impressive sand art demonstration by artist He Liping, who crafted an expansive eight-meter-long sand mural on-site. The artwork depicted Belgium's fairytale charm in Bruges, complete with red kestrels, blooming poppies, Smurfs near the Atomium, and imagery representing the EU. In contrast, the other side illustrated the rich canal culture of Jiangsu province, featuring iconic symbols like giant pandas and cherry blossoms adorning ancient bridges in cities like Changzhou and Wuxi.

Attendees had the opportunity to learn about the region's culinary traditions from Cao Weiping, a renowned tea snack artist from Changzhou. During the event, she elaborated on the historical significance of tea snacks, which date back to the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD). "Tea snacks have over 1,400 years of history. They were a common accompaniment to tea for both the intellectual elite and common folk, as they enjoyed socializing around this beloved beverage," she explained. The intricate designs of the snacks, shaped like seasonal fruits, delighted the audience as she demonstrated their preparation.

Adding to the cultural richness, Spanish violinist Marina Martin attended the exhibition titled “Millennia-old Canal, Charm of Jiangsu.” She expressed her admiration for the displayed traditional Chinese instruments, including the erhu. "I fell in love with the violin piece 'The Butterfly Lovers' when I first heard it, and I’ve always cherished my visits to China. Events like this bridge cultural gaps and deepen cross-cultural understanding among people," she remarked.

This event not only showcased the depth of Jiangsu's cultural heritage but also emphasized the importance of international cooperation and cultural exchange. The collaboration between Chinese and Belgian artists at this cultural festival serves as a symbol of unity and appreciation, allowing people from different backgrounds to explore and enjoy each other's rich and varied traditions. It’s a heartening reminder of how art has the power to transcend boundaries and foster diplomacy on a global scale.

With the completion of this week-long celebration, both nations are poised to enhance cultural ties and promote a greater understanding among their citizens. Through such initiatives, the lasting legacy of the Grand Canal culture will continue to inspire and connect diverse communities across the globe.