VALLETTA, Sept. 15 (Xinhua) -- Chinese culture took center stage at the annual "connecting through culture" event, hosted by Malta's Ta' Xbiex local council on the city's waterfront on Saturday night.
The event highlighted the vibrant diversity of international cultural exchanges, with the China Cultural Center in Malta featuring an eye-catching booth. The booth drew visitors to explore exquisite Chinese handicrafts and modern cultural products, reflecting both China's rich cultural heritage and its innovative spirit.
Participants also gathered to enjoy traditional Chinese tea, experiencing the long history of Chinese tea culture. Many admired the intricate ink and wash paintings and Chinese calligraphy on display. In celebration of the upcoming Mid-Autumn Festival, attendees were treated to mooncakes, a traditional delicacy associated with the holiday.
Chinese traditional music and folk dance performances captivated the audience during the event. The 19th Chinese medical team from the Mediterranean Regional Centre for Traditional Chinese Medicine demonstrated Tai Chi, the centuries-old martial art inscribed on UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage list.
"The performance was really good, and we enjoyed it," said Margaret Sciberras, who attended the event with her husband. She noted that while they have participated in the event for several years, this was the first time they had seen performances of Chinese music and dance.
Agnese Patellaro, who attended with her three children, also praised the cultural experience. "I love learning about traditions from different countries," she said, adding that she hoped to visit China in the future.
Max Zammit, mayor of Ta' Xbiex, and councilor Louise Cachia Castelletti visited the China Cultural Center's booth, expressing their appreciation for the center's contributions. They emphasized their hopes for continued collaboration to further strengthen China-Malta relations and promote multicultural exchange. ■