With the contest and award “Chinese Bridge” PetroChina Cup, the 5th anniversary of the Confucius Institute of the University of Panama and the 6th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and Panama were celebrated.
More than 50 students competed in the different categories of the Chinese Bridge contest, a true bridge of friendship between the two peoples. The Confucius Institute offers cultural integration through the teaching of the Chinese language, considered one of the six official languages of the UN, said Jin Liang, cultural and educational advisor of the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Panama.
The talents and skills in learning the Mandarin language and understanding Chinese culture were judged by all the contestants. In the “University Students” category, first place went to Chaneys Chambers; second place, Beira Atencio and Said Chong; and the third place, Luz Montañez, Rut Gutiérrez and Virgina Magan.
In the category “Secondary students” the first prize was won by Christyan Pérez; second place went to Abril Martínez; and third place was won by Ashley Luckuchan. While in the category of “Primary students”, the first place was received by Ian Fabrizzio Montero Díaz and David Sesin; the second Joaquín Albornoz and Marielle Ariani Ballagas; and third place Paulette Vargas Chavira, Rem Chemolosov and Zoe Camila Quintero González.
As for the “Students of Chinese Descent” category, Milley Wang Wen won first place, while Yannick Maxim Kaiser Zhang took second place and Ouyang Lishan third.
For his part, José Moreno, academic vice-rector of the University of Panama, stressed the importance of the Confucius Institute for strengthening academic ties between China and Panama, as an invaluable opportunity for student performance. While Zheng Chengjun, vice-chancellor of the Beijing University of International Studies, stressed that in 2019 this educational center was distinguished as a “Worldwide Outstanding Confucius Institute” and that in the last 5 years it has been a faithful reflection and fruit of friendship and exchange between China and Panama, providing development opportunities.
The executive vice president of PetroChina International (Pan America) Trading, SA, said that through these activities they contribute to promoting Chinese culture, in contact with local communities, through the philosophy of green development, contributions of energy resources and the provision of service for the growth of users.
In this event organized by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Panama, the Confucius Institute of the University of Panama and PetroChina International (Pan America) Trading SA, the following participated: Zhao Lingshan, vice president and secretary general of the China Foundation for International Education (virtual); Elías Castillo, executive secretary of Parlatino; David Wu, director of the Confucius Institute of the University of Panama, authorities and special guests.
