To foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding between China and Colombia, the China-Colombia Poetry Recital (Colombia-China Recital de poesia) was jointly organized by the Institute of Foreign Literature at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and the Embassy of Colombia in China. The event took place on the morning of September 26 at the Liangxiang Campus of the University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (UCASS).
Hosted by UCASS and supported by the Spanish and Portuguese Literature Branch of the Chinese Society of Foreign Literature, the recital was attended by Mr. Sergio Cabrera, Colombian Ambassador to China, Cultural Attaché Melisa Murcia, and two professional Colombian actors. Cui Weihang, Party Secretary of UCASS, Cheng Wei, Director of the Institute of Foreign Literature at CASS and Dean of the School of Foreign Languages at UCASS, and Assistant to the President Zhan Long were also in attendance. The event attracted over 300 audience within and outside the university.
In his opening remarks, Cui Weihang noted that the poetry recital was held under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy and within the framework of building a community with a shared future for mankind. Its successful organization vividly exemplifies international cultural exchange. Such events provide students with an international platform to showcase their talents and enrich campus culture, and even leverage poetry as a bridge to deepen cultural and educational ties between China and Colombia, contributing to a harmonious global cultural landscape.
Ambassador Sergio Cabrera emphasized in his address that culture is a powerful tool for expanding international dialogue between Colombia and China. He noted that despite the geographical distance and cultural differences across the Pacific, people from both nations share a deep sensitivity to written language. Through bilingual poetry in Spanish and Chinese, they could exchange ideas and resonate on universal human issues, thereby strengthening the bonds of friendship.
Cheng Wei highlighted in his speech that both China and Colombia are countries deeply enriched by poetry. The recital not only celebrated the rhythm and depth of poetry but also aimed to deepen cultural understanding and respect between the two nations. He emphasized the unique value of literature in cross-cultural dialogue, showcasing poetry's power in fostering international connections.
Eleven poems were recited by Chinese and Colombian participants, celebrating the beauty of poetic culture and shared human values.
