Investment immigration to Latvia and integrating into life in Latvia: The first "Huawei Cup" and the 12th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition in Latvia were held on the 21st in the auditorium of the University of Latvia library.
This event was hosted by the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Latvia, organized by the Confucius Institute at the University of Latvia, and sponsored by Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. It is understood that this is the first time a Chinese enterprise has sponsored such a Chinese cultural event in Latvia and even in Europe.
Yang Guoqiang, the Chinese Ambassador to Latvia, delivered a speech before the competition began, stating: "By mastering the Chinese language, one can make friends, conduct business, and share friendship with the Chinese people, who account for one-fifth of the world's population; mastering Chinese also means obtaining the golden key to enter the palace of knowledge of a 5,000-year-old ancient civilization."
He noted that as the country with the earliest and largest scale of Chinese language teaching among the three Baltic states, the Latvian government has made significant contributions to the promotion of the Chinese language and culture. He expressed deep respect for the sinologists and Chinese language teachers who have long been dedicated to the cause of Chinese education.
There were 36 contestants this year, competing in the "University/Adult Group," "Middle School Student Group," and "Primary School Student Group," participating in three segments: themed speeches, Chinese knowledge quizzes, and talent shows. The contestants ranged in age from 9 to 39. Through storytelling, singing, calligraphy, and other forms, the foreign students showcased their Chinese proficiency, their understanding of China, and their love for Chinese culture. Some students who had visited China also shared their interesting experiences and observations.
After the competition, Nadīna Rode won the championship in the "University/Adult Group," while Ivans Ņilovs and Aleksandra Kiļija took first and second place in the "Middle School Student Group," respectively. These three individuals earned the qualification to participate in the "Chinese Bridge" World College and Middle School Student Chinese Proficiency Competition finals to be held in Changsha, China, in the second half of this year. In addition, six winners received smartphones provided by Huawei.
To date, the number of Latvian students studying in China has exceeded 200, and nearly 1,000 people have received Chinese language instruction. As of now, 6 universities and 5 middle schools in Latvia offer Chinese language courses.
