Confucius Institute Opening Ceremony

On 19 April 2018, the Confucius Institute at the University of Luxembourg was inaugurated in Belval,  in the presence of Luxembourg and China authorities.

“This institute is important for Luxembourg, it is important for the University. It brings China and Luxembourg closer together and builds a bridge between Fudan’s community and ours,” commented University Rector Prof. Stéphane Pallage. “It opens many perspectives of cooperation in culture, but also in research, teaching and economic development.”

The Institute is opened in close cooperation with Fudan University of Shanghai, one of the most prestigious research institutions in the Middle Kingdom. At the opening event, Jiao Yang, Chairperson of the University Council at Fudan University, pointed out that the new entity is already the seventh Confucius Institute Fudan University helps to create, adding: “We have established a deep friendship between our Universities. The joint establishment of the Confucius Institute is milestone for both of our schools.”

The inauguration opened with a traditional dance of the Chinese dragon.

The event was also attended by the Chinese ambassador in Luxembourg, Huang Changqing, and Marc Hansen, Delegate Minister for Research and Higher Education, who emphasised that the Chinese language is spoken by 16% of the world’s population and pointed to the economic and scientific benefits of a closer cooperation between the countries.

Visitors of the opening event were treated to a cultural programme including a concert of traditional Chinese music as well as dragon and lion dances.

As part of the festivities organised for its inauguration day, the Confucius Institute at the University of Luxembourg has also opened its doors to the public from 11am to 3pm on the Belval Campus, in the entrance hall of the Maison du Savoir.

A great opportunity to learn more about what the Confucius Institute has to offer and enjoy a host of activities such as a photographic exhibition "This is Shanghai", Chinese calligraphy, paper cutting and folding, Chinese knotting and more.