This year's Chinese Bridge Summer Camp concluded with a closing ceremony in Beijing on Aug 15.

Organized by the Center for Language Education and Cooperation and Beijing International Studies University (BISU), the camp welcomed nearly 40 students from BISU's overseas Confucius Institutes in Morocco, France and the UK. Over two weeks, participants enhanced their Chinese language skills and explored China's rich history and vibrant modern culture through engaging courses and cultural lectures.

Zheng Chengjun, a member of the Standing Committee of the CPC BISU Committee and vice-president of the university, delivered a speech at the ceremony.

Zheng congratulated everyone involved, highlighting the significance of the camp in three aspects: Enhancing Language and Understanding Culture, Exploring Beijing and Reading China and Exchanging and Showcasing Talents.

He encouraged them to continue improving their Chinese language skills after returning to their home countries and to become "civil ambassadors" for friendly exchanges between China and their countries.

He extended a sincere invitation for them to pursue further studies at BISU, adding this summer camp could be a new starting point for exploring China and understanding the world.

Deans of BISU's overseas Confucius Institutes expressed gratitude to the university for organizing the event, as it provided participants with an opportunity to deeply understand Chinese culture, enhance their language skills, and gain insights into Chinese history, art, and social development. They also pledged to encourage more students to study in Beijing in the future.

Chetouni Mariem from Morocco shared that the summer camp left her with precious memories, and the companionship of teachers, staff, and fellow students made her feel the warmth of home in Beijing. She said she hoped to reunite with her new friends in Beijing in the future.

French student representative Le Bellego Christophe expressed her appreciation for the two weeks spent in Beijing, where she had the chance to immerse herself in Chinese language studies, gain a deeper understanding of Chinese history and culture, and engage in face-to-face exchanges with Chinese friends.

She said she found that the participants all fell in love with the language and found joy and friendship in the classroom, during meals, and while exploring Beijing.

The participants of the summer camp explore Beijing. 

Parmis Piltan, a student from the UK, said that the trip sparked his interest in Chinese culture, and he hoped to continue studying in China to further appreciate the richness of Chinese culture.

During the closing ceremony, participants performed Tai Chi fan, showcasing Eastern charm, along with Chinese songs such as "The Moon Represents My Heart", "Lanting Xu" and "Sweet Honey", highlighting the fusion of Chinese and foreign cultures.

The students perform Tai Chi fan and sing Chinese songs at the closing ceremony.

Zheng and Ma Tengfei, Party secretary of the School of International Education, awarded completion certificates to all summer camp participants.

The event was jointly organized by BISU's International Exchange and Cooperation Office and the School of International Education.  

The participants of the summer camp pose for a group photo.