China and Tanzania have launched the "Culture and Tourism Year" project in Beijing, which is expected to hold a great variety of dazzling performances and promotional events to deepen ties and boost exchanges between the two countries.
Tanzanians in Beijing delivered traditional dance and drum performances, while Chinese performers also staged fascinating shows, as China welcomed both the Foreign Minister and Tourism Minister of Tanzania to the Chinese capital this week.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Tanzania, and the two countries are hosting a series of bilateral cultural events.
For the vibrant Tanzanian community in Beijing, connections extend beyond trade.
"My connection in China is that, first of all, I married a Chinese, I mean, I have a Chinese family. And now, another connection is the good relationship between my country Tanzania and China," said Joseline Yahaya Rajabu, assistant manager of Mozeti Tours and Safaris, a Tanzanian tourism service provider.
The bustling event took stock of the decades-long bond, and also presented the chance to grow the China-Tanzania relationship in the future.
"For us it's a huge opportunity to showcase the tourist attractions and tourism investment opportunities available for the two countries. For the Chinese investors, for the Chinese travelers, we want to reassure them that Tanzania is the ultimate destination when it comes to unforgettable experiences," said Ephraim Balozi Mafaru, director general of Tanzanian Tourist Board.
Beyond tourism, China and Tanzania have pledged to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture and health care as part of their comprehensive strategic partnership.
Chinese performer Wan Linmei said the power of music and songs are instrumental to bring the two countries closer. "I know something about Tanzanian music, and I think what makes the Tanzanian people distinctive is that their sense of rhythm is innate, which I think is given by God. This time by attending the opening ceremony, I sincerely feel that through the exchange of music and culture, we can quickly deepen our friendship," she said.
2024 China-Tanzania Culture and Tourism Year opens in Beijing
2024 China-Tanzania Culture and Tourism Year opens in Beijing
