Celebrating Two Decades of Cultural Friendship
The China Cultural Center in Malta recently marked its 20th anniversary with a series of vibrant events organized in collaboration with the Xi’an Municipal Administration of Culture and Tourism. A highlight was the donation of two terracotta warrior replicas from Xi’an—the historic capital of China’s Shaanxi Province—to the Chinese Garden of Serenity. This symbolic gesture was followed by an outdoor concert featuring traditional Chinese music and dance, performed by artists from Xi’an. Chinese Ambassador to Malta Yu Dunhai emphasized the strong friendship that has flourished between China and Malta over more than 50 years of diplomatic relations. He highlighted the center’s role in fostering cultural exchange through education, training, and numerous cultural projects such as Chinese New Year celebrations, the Kite Festival, and the “Imagine China” children’s art competition. The center stands as an important window for the Maltese people to engage with China and will continue to strengthen bilateral ties.
A Landmark Event Strengthening Cultural Bonds
The 20th anniversary of the China Cultural Center also represents a milestone not only for Malta but for Europe, being the first center of its kind on the continent. Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca, chair of the Malta Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society, acknowledged the cultural center’s significance in deepening the Malta-China friendship. Charmaine St John, mayor of Santa Lucija, praised the relationship for its foundation of equality and mutual benefit, expressing hopes for even greater cultural interaction in the future, especially at the Garden of Serenity. The celebrations culminated with a lively lantern festival in Valletta, where visitors enjoyed tasting Chinese tea, watching performances by Xi’an artists, and trying on authentic Tang Dynasty costumes, immersing themselves in the rich heritage of Chinese culture.
Preserving China’s Cultural Treasures: Insights from Huaqing Palace
On Monday, July 24, Yao Xinyuan, a distinguished expert from Xi’an and Chairman of Shaanxi Huaqing Palace Culture and Tourism Ltd., delivered an engaging talk on the protection and inheritance of cultural heritage in China. Drawing on his experience, Yao shared how the Huaqing Palace—a nationally protected royal site nestled at the foot of Lishan Mountain—was transformed from a declining tourist spot into a highly successful and popular attraction. Recognized as a National 5A Tourist Attraction, the highest rating for cultural sites in China, Huaqing Palace combines breathtaking natural scenery with deep historical significance. Beyond introducing this iconic landmark, Yao’s presentation highlighted the importance of cultural preservation and fostered a meaningful exchange of heritage stories between China and Malta.
