Romanian student in Dalian forges deep ties with China in pursuit of engineering dream

A Romanian student in northeast China's Dalian has forged a deep bond with Chinese culture, gaining language proficiency and establishing long lasting friendships with students from across the globe. The 24-year-old student, with Chinese name Li Haoran, discovered his passion for the Chinese language during his high school years. Five years ago, Li made the decision to pursue his architectural dream in China and chose to major in civil engineering at Dalian University of Technology.

"Hello everyone, my name is Li Haoran, and I'm from Romania. At that time, I really wanted to study in China, particularly in a coastal city, such as Dalian, which has many hills and the sea, then I could go for walks at the seaside at any time," Li said.

Li balances his studies with actively participating in variety of student organizations, as he serves as the vice chair of the language exchange association. Through these experiences, he has forged friendships with fellow students from different countries, jointly immersing themselves in the exploration of Chinese culture.

During his five-year study experience in China, Li has embraced the Chinese way of life and witnessed the rapid and remarkable development unfolding across China.

"Living in China offers great convenience. For instance, I can do many things with my mobile phone, including making mobile payments wherever I go. I really like Dalian during my stay in the city. I particularly enjoy eating hot pot, spicy hot pot, and crispy sweet and sour pork, a dish in northeast China," Li added.

"The main reason I'm willing to stay in China for my personal development is that I have met kind and helpful friends. Moreover, I have noticed that China is experiencing rapid development and continuous improvement of the environment. For instance, the expansion of green spaces in cities has made them more habitable for people," he said.

Romanian student in Dalian forges deep ties with China in pursuit of engineering dream

A wooden sculpture presented as a diplomatic gift from Burundi to China showcases the unique regional culture and testifies to the strong ties between China and this African country.

The wooden sculpture was presented to Chinese President Xi Jinping by Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye when he visited China to attend the 31st Summer Edition of the FISU World University Games in 2023.

"In July 2023, Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye attended the opening ceremony of the 31st summer edition of the FISU World University Games in China. He presented this wooden sculpture representing a Burundian ritual drum dance," said Hu Zexia, curator of the Exhibition of Diplomatic Gifts received by China's Leaders.

In Burundi, drum is a revered instrument. The drum dance is a traditional folk art cherished by the Burundian people. The wooden drums are typically made from a type of tree abundant in central Burundi, with one end of the trunk hollowed out and covered with cowhide. The thickness of the drum walls and the size of the drumhead determine the sound produced by the drum.

"The drum is painted with the colors of the Burundian flag, and the performer, who is also dressed in those colors, balances the large drum on their head while playing it as they enter the stage. Normally, the dancers form a semicircle and perform various dance moves in sync with the drumbeats, creating a strong sense of rhythm that makes the audience feel the lively and joyful atmosphere of the performance," said Hu.   The gift on display helps visitors learn more about the African country and its close ties with China.

Unique drummer sculpture gifted by Burundi to China symbolizes lasting friendship