On September 16, the launch ceremony of the 18th "Chinese Bridge" Chinese Proficiency Competition for ForeignSecondary School Students was held at Tianjin Normal University (TNU). Attendees included Liu Jianqing, Deputy Director of the Center for Language Education and Cooperation (CLEC) of the Ministry of Education; Liu Yiman, Deputy Secretary of the Tianjin Municipal Education Working Committee; Qu Kai, Secretary of the CPC TNU Committee; Zhong Yinghua, President of the International Society for Chinese Language Teaching (ISCLT), and other officials. The event welcomed 119 contestants from 102 countries across five continents, accompanied by 104 teachers and guardians, who gathered in Tianjin to begin their journey of pursuing their dreams in Chinese.

Under the guidance of Ministry of Education and the Tianjin Municipal Government, and hosted by CLEC, the competition is co-organized by the Tianjin Municipal Education Commission (TMEC), TNU, Yangtuo International Integration Communication Group Co., Ltd, Tianjin Jinyun New Media Group Co., Ltd, and Beijing Leading Holiday International Travel Co., Ltd. With the theme "Fly high with Chinese," participants will engage in deeply immersive activities showcasing Tianjin's historical culture and its strides in Chinese modernization. The agenda emphasizes the role of modern industry and technology in urban development, offers firsthand experience of Tianjin's "Eight Distinctive Cultural Traits," and facilitates cultural understanding through interactions with local people, historical sites, and contemporary life. Through city walks and experiential learning, students will undertake an intensive study of Chinese language and culture. The itinerary is designed to let contestants explore the city's unique blend of ancient canal heritage and modern metropolitan development, uncover the open-minded spirit rooted in the Haihe River region, and gain authentic, multifaceted insights into China through friendly competition.

The 18th "Chinese Bridge" competition and cultural activities will span two weeks. During their time in Tianjin, students will compete to crown continental champions and an overall global winner.
By Jierui He