Over the past 10 weeks, foreign diplomats deepened their understanding of China through an immersive language and cultural exchange program, which concluded with a graduation ceremony on the morning of June 7 at East China Normal University.

The 2025 edition of the Shanghai Summer School Diplomats' Program, now in its 14th year, brought together 59 diplomats from 28 consulates general based in Shanghai.

Bulgarian Consul General Vladislav Spasov said studying Chinese has been a rewarding challenge. "Learning Chinese is not easy, but the characters are like a form of meditation," he said. "They are aesthetically pleasing and open a window into Chinese culture. I will continue working hard to improve my Chinese and write characters every day to gradually improve my skills."

Indian Consul General Pratik Mathur described the program as a transformative experience. "Today is not the end, but a new beginning," he said at the graduation ceremony. "Whether we go on to become business envoys, cultural bridges, or simply lovers of Chinese cuisine, this period — when we thought, dreamed, and even talked in Chinese — will forever remain a cherished part of our lives."

Throughout the program, diplomats attended lectures on China's economy and foreign policy, visited landmarks such as Zikawei Library and the Shanghai Meteorological Museum, and participated in hands-on cultural activities.

As one of the most influential components of the Shanghai Summer School, the Diplomats' Program has played a vital role in strengthening ties between the Shanghai municipal government and foreign consulates. Participants and organizers expressed a desire to maintain lasting connections in the years to come.

Source: Official WeChat account of Global Education Center of ECNU at "ecnugec"