China-EU Relations Boosted by People-to-People Exchange

In a Paris courtyard, locals move gracefully through Tai Chi forms under the guidance of a Chinese professor – more than exercise, it’s a living lesson in harmony between humanity and nature, embodying “Tian Ren He Yi.” This intimate scene reflects a profound shift: China-EU cultural exchange is evolving beyond formal settings, weaving itself into the everyday fabric of life on both continents, fueled by surging tourism and vibrant youth connections.

Cultural Bridges Extend Beyond Borders

Over five decades of partnership, mutual learning has defined China-EU relations. Today, cultural and people-to-people links form a vital, enduring pillar. In Berlin, crowds at the “LANTING – Chinese Calligraphy Culture Salon” don’t just admire ancient art; they pick up brushes to write characters themselves. Cooperation extends to conservation: three rare golden snub-nosed monkeys from China’s Qinling Mountains arrived at Belgium’s Pairi Daiza Zoo for a 10-year stay. Zoo founder Eric Domb hailed them as “ambassadors” of friendship, symbolizing shared values in biodiversity. Chinese cultural exports resonate powerfully – the animated blockbuster “Nezha 2” saw strong European releases, while dragon boat races captivated crowds during the Dragon Boat Festival.

Tourism Fuels Mutual Understanding and Growth

This cultural momentum is turbocharged by booming tourism. Budapest recently launched its 2025 China Tourism and Culture Week, with Hungarian Tourism Agency official Szabolcs Szilagyi stating, “China has become one of the most important source countries for tourists coming to Hungary.” Budapest now connects directly to seven Chinese cities, solidifying its role as a key hub. Switzerland, celebrating 75 years of ties with China in 2025, is hosting a dedicated Year of Culture and Tourism. Ambassador Jürg Burri highlighted plans for diverse activities across China and efforts to welcome more visitors through streamlined visas and green travel. Valencia, Spain, actively courts Chinese tourists via social media and sister-city ties with Guangzhou, Chengdu, and Xi’an. According to Travel And Tour World, tourism is recovering robustly, with Europeans exploring China’s heritage and Chinese travelers seeking immersive European experiences. China’s visa-free policy for 24 EU states has significantly boosted exchanges, with over 97 million trips recorded in 2024 alone, building immense public goodwill.

Youth Power the Next Chapter

As established ties mature, youth exchanges inject fresh dynamism. Students from Ireland, France, Germany, and Hungary are visiting China in growing numbers, engaging in campus life and cultural immersion. “The visits help our students understand the real China,” noted Patrick Egan, a teacher from Ireland’s Rockwell College, whose school now plans annual trips for 20 students. China’s mutual recognition agreements on higher education degrees with 19 EU states, signed since 2016, facilitate balanced student mobility. Simultaneously, Chinese language learning surges across Europe: France hosts over 60 public school Mandarin classes, while Spain boasts more than 60,000 students learning Chinese, positioning it as one of the EU’s most enthusiastic adopters.

This deepening tapestry of China-EU cultural exchange – visible in shared Tai Chi movements, bustling tourism hubs, and youthful friendships – is transforming mutual perception. It builds an indispensable foundation of understanding, proving that people-to-people bonds are the most resilient force shaping the future of this critical global partnership. Experience this vibrant exchange firsthand – explore the opportunities unfolding across both continents.

Must Know

Q: What recent policy boosted China-EU tourism?
A: China implemented a unilateral visa-free policy for citizens of 24 European Union member states. This significant move has substantially increased travel, contributing to over 97 million trips recorded between China and Europe in 2024.

Q: Which European countries are seeing high interest in Chinese language learning?
A: France and Spain are leading examples. France has integrated over 60 international classes teaching Mandarin within its public school system. Spain reports more than 60,000 students actively learning Chinese, demonstrating strong enthusiasm.

Q: How is youth exchange between China and the EU developing?
A: Youth exchanges are rapidly growing, with increasing numbers of European students visiting China for cultural immersion and campus experiences. Agreements on mutual recognition of higher education degrees between China and 19 EU states facilitate smoother two-way student mobility.

Q: What are some examples of successful Chinese cultural exports to Europe mentioned?
A: Recent examples include the successful European theatrical release of the Chinese animated film “Nezha 2” across several countries and the widespread popularity of dragon boat racing events held during the traditional Dragon Boat Festival.

Q: What role does tourism play in China-EU cultural exchange?
A: Tourism is a major driver, facilitating direct cultural experiences. Countries like Hungary, Switzerland, and Spain are actively marketing to Chinese tourists, while Chinese visa-free policies encourage European travel to China. This two-way flow fosters deeper mutual understanding.