On June 18, the San Marino Confucius Institute (CI) successfully held a pre-departure briefing for the upcoming Beijing Summer Camp, alongside a cultural experience event celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival. The event was attended by over 30 students who are preparing to travel to China for the summer camp, and their parents.

The event was moderated by Barbara Montanari, the local director of the CI. She warmly welcomed the students and parents, expressing her hope that through this upcoming trip to China, the participants would gain a profound understanding of the Chinese language and culture, and personally experience the development and vitality of contemporary China.

In her speech, Fan Ling, the Chinese director of the CI, congratulated the campers on their upcoming journey to China. She pointed out that the Beijing Summer Camp is not only a journey of learning and exchange but also a valuable opportunity to know, experience, and understand China. She encouraged the students to cherish this opportunity, actively participate in various activities, deepen their understanding of Chinese history, culture, and social development, and serve as youth ambassadors for friendly exchanges between China and San Marino.

Following this, Liu Xiaoyu, the lead teacher, provided a detailed introduction to the camp's itinerary, the organizers, travel precautions, accommodation and safety management requirements, and packing suggestions. She also addressed and answered questions of concern to the attendees. The students were full of anticipation for their upcoming trip to China, creating a lively atmosphere at the event.

Coinciding with the approaching traditional Chinese Dragon Boat Festival, the CI also organized a special cultural experience. Liu Xiaoyu introduced the historical origins, cultural significance, and traditional customs of the festival, such as dragon boat racing and eating Zongzi (glutinous rice dumplings). Participants then enjoyed traditional Chinese delicacies, including honey-date Zongzi, red bean Zongzi, and shrimp dumplings, and experienced Chinese tea culture. Jasmine tea and Chinese black tea were particularly well-received by the students and parents, who felt the unique charm of traditional Chinese festival culture in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.

At the end of the event, students and parents expressed their gratitude to the CI. This event not only helped the campers complete their pre-departure preparations but also allowed them to experience a strong Chinese cultural atmosphere in advance, adding even more excitement to their upcoming Beijing Summer Camp journey.

Hosted by Beijing City University, the Beijing Summer Camp project will see campers engaging in a rich array of activities in July, including language learning, cultural experiences, and visits. These activities aim to further enhance their understanding of China and deepen the friendship and exchange between the youth of China and San Marino.