New Delhi [India], May 24 (ANI): Chinese Ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, lauded the Chinese speeches and cultural performances at the 2026 'Chinese Bridge' Competition - India Regional Finals.

Xu on Friday noted the passion Indian students have for Chinese language and culture.

In a post on X, he said, 'Fluent Chinese speeches, vibrant cultural performances, and inspiring young talents! Delighted to attend the 2026 'Chinese Bridge' Competition - India Regional Finals together with Dr. Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities. It was truly heartening to meet so many outstanding Indian students learning Chinese and to witness their passion for the Chinese language and culture through their remarkable performances.'

https://x.com/China_Amb_India/status/2058193536768672193?s=20

'Their enthusiasm and dedication vividly reflect the growing vitality of educational and people-to-people exchanges between China and India, and point to a bright future for friendship between our two peoples. Warm congratulations to all the participants and winners!'

Xu, while addressing the event, said, 'Last month, I had the pleasure of joining over 150 Indian teachers and students to celebrate the International Chinese Language Day. The students gave lively performances in Chinese and experienced traditional Chinese arts and crafts, such as calligraphy, paper-cutting, tea art and rubbings. Today we gather here for the exciting finals of the 'Chinese Bridge' competition in India, where all contestants showed a solid grasp of Chinese, as well as their vitality and confidence.'

Xu lauded the shared passion that united the attendees across their backgrounds.

'It is truly heartening to see that, despite coming from different age groups and backgrounds, you are united by a shared passion for the Chinese language, and have gained valuable experience and friendship through this competition,' he said.

Xu noted the exchanges and deepening cooperation between India and China through such events.

'As exchanges and cooperation between China and India continue to deepen, the aspiration among young Indians to learn Chinese is growing stronger. Last week, speaking on behalf of the Chinese Foreign Minister at the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting, I emphasized that BRICS countries should strengthen mutual learning and exchanges, deepen educational cooperation, and organize more people-to-people and cultural exchange activities. I believe the Chinese language, as a bridge, will further promote mutual understanding and friendship between the young people of our two countries, bringing their hearts closer together and fostering ever stronger bonds,' he said. (ANI)