President of the Republic Nicos Anastasiades addressed Tuesday the opening ceremony of the Confucius Institute, at the University of Cyprus, noting that the establishment of the Institute provides ample proof of the friendship and strong cooperation between the friendly countries of Cyprus and China.
“The cooperation between the University of Cyprus and the Beijing Institute of Education via the Confucius Institute at the University of Cyprus will lead to innovative and progressive collaborations in the academic, research and educational fields, which will pave the way for the “blossoming” of the already dynamic relationship between our two peoples”, he said.
In his address, which was read out by Minister of Education and Culture, Costas Kadis, the President said that cultural interaction, exchange of knowledge and academic research are essential tools for bridging civilizations and building understanding between cultures, adding that the Confucius Institute at the University of Cyprus will be a prime example of such valuable interaction between Cyprus and China.
“I am certain that the collaboration of the University of Cyprus and the Beijing Institute of Education will be a bright example of exceptional partnership, which will enhance the bonds between our two countries on various levels”, he continued.
He added that visits from China to Cyprus have increased over the past years, and added that many Chinese nationals have decided to come and work in Cyprus.
“In an effort to foster understanding and communication, it is crucial to concentrate on the interaction of the two civilizations, embrace and exchange ideas on our long and rich histories, cultures and traditions”, he went on to say.
For these reasons, the President said, “I believe that the University of Cyprus is the ideal institution to foster these bonds”.
Concluding, he expressed the government’s gratitude to the People’s Republic of China and the Embassy of China in Cyprus for their support in the establishment and operation of the Confucius Institute at the University of Cyprus.
