On June 6, the "Taijiquan Salon for Diplomats in China" was held at Prince Shuncheng Palace in Chaoyang Park, Beijing. More than a hundred diplomats from over 40 countries, representatives from international organizations, and international students gathered to experience Taijiquan.

Zhang Yuping, Director of Wushu Administrative Center of the General Administration of Sport of China and Secretary General of the International Wushu Federation (IWUF), stated in her speech that Taijiquan not only strengthens the body but also nurtures the mind. IWUF and the Chinese Wushu Association are actively promoting Taijiquan and look forward to collaborating with various countries to promote martial arts culture.

Zhou Qingjie, Director of the Sports Exchange and Research Center at the China Foreign Affairs University, provided a comprehensive introduction to the history, branches, and key learning points of Taijiquan. Following this, a stunning martial arts and singing and dancing performance received rounds of applause from the audience.

“I met many diplomats from different countries today, and I’m very happy. I hope everyone enjoys our dance,” said Li Xingzhi, a young performer of the Nezha Dance.

In the subsequent practical session, guests entered the courtyard to personally experience the basic movements of Taijiquan. Everyone enthusiastically participated, exchanged learning insights, and took photos to commemorate this unforgettable cultural experience.

Pakistani Ambassador to China, Hashmi, shared his understanding of Taijiquan. He noted that while the movements are slow, they require high levels of focus and self-discipline from practitioners. He expressed that the China-Pakistan relationship is becoming increasingly close, and this event also provides a platform for mutual exchange between the two sides.

Several international students from Peking University remarked that learning Taijiquan during their time in China was a unique cultural experience. The movements of Taijiquan are fluid and rhythmic, making it both visually appealing and a great way to exercise, serving as an excellent method to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.

Maria from Russia reflected after her practice that Taijiquan is not just a sport but a "flowing philosophy". She said, "In the fast-paced modern life, the 'slowness' of Taijiquan allows us to slow down. This slowness is not about being sluggish; it’s about reconnecting with nature and gaining a deeper understanding of life between movement and stillness."

The event was organized by the China Foreign Affairs University, the Wushu Administrative Center of the General Administration of Sport of China, the Asia Pacific Daily, and the Foreign Affairs Office of Chaoyang District People's Government of Beijing Municipality and hosted by the Department of Basic Education and the Sports Exchange and Research Center of the China Foreign Affairs University.

(Source: Xinhua News Agency)