By Linny Folau

A China Day event was held for Chinese learning students and teachers from Tonga High School and Tonga College on October 23 in Nuku'alofa.

The event hosted for the first time by the Chinese Embassy, provided an opportunity for the students to experience cultural performances, folk culture and view traditional food making, chinese calligraphy, and watch a short Chinese film.

Mr Yang Zhaohui, Charge’d Affaires at the Embassy, hoped that through their first hand experience and interactions with the embassy staff, they could learn more about the Chinese culture, have a better understanding of China and become interested in learning the Chinese language. 

“Tongan people are gifted with strong language learning talents. I sincerely hope that while fulfilling your own dreams of life, you can become envoys of China-Tonga cultural exchanges and the bridge that connect our two countries and two people,” he said.

Language is the carrier of culture, he said.

"Learning Chinese will open a window for you, through which you can get deeper understanding of China and the Chinese culture. Learning Chinese will open a path for you to help you achieve your life goals and career success."

He said, the Chinese side also attached great importance to the crucial roles that culture plays in their friendly relations with Tonga.

“Through promoting Chinese teaching and hosting cultural events, the Chinese side is committed to people-to-people exchanges and to enhance our friendship,” he said.

Lucy Moala Mafi, Acting CEO of the Ministry of Education reassured the ambassador of the Ministry's support to the One China Policy and said all efforts were being made to strengthen Tonga-China relations.

“I believe learning a foreign language and culture cannot be completed without the practical components, so this event provides first hand experience on the Chinese culture,” she said.

She also acknowledged the initiatives the Ministry and China had partnered in education, sports, cultural events and short term training to China.