Kolkata — A group of nine Chinese scholars and two traditional dancers arrived in Kolkata this week as part of a cultural exchange visit aimed at fostering people-to-people ties and mutual understanding between India and China. Over the course of their visit, the delegation explored various parts of Kolkata and Santiniketan, engaging with local academics, artists, and citizens in a series of seminars, discussions, and cultural events.
The visit concluded with a farewell dinner hosted by the Chinese Consul General in Kolkata. Attended by a few select members of the media, the event provided a platform for open and candid conversations between the visitors and their Indian counterparts.
Speaking to ANM News, several members of the delegation expressed admiration for India’s rich cultural heritage and voiced a strong desire for deeper collaboration between the two nations. Cai Jing, a scholar from Xiamen, said, “This has been an amazing journey. I’ve visited India multiple times, and I’m always fascinated by the culture. We are close neighbors, and we need more exchange and communication.” She added that many in China are eager to learn more about India and welcome Indians to explore Chinese society in return.
Another scholar from Shenzhen University, Ruanruo, highlighted the need for greater mutual understanding. “This is my first time in India, and Kolkata has amazed me. I hope we continue to build bridges between our people,” he said.
The visitors emphasized that such exchanges not only strengthen diplomatic ties but also promote friendship and collaboration at a grassroots level. The tour, described by the delegates as both educational and emotionally enriching, underscores the value of cultural diplomacy in the increasingly interconnected global landscape.
As both countries navigate a complex geopolitical relationship, the delegation’s visit served as a reminder that dialogue, understanding, and shared appreciation for culture can pave the way for a more harmonious future.