The 2026 Chinese Bridge Competition was successfully held on May 6, 2026, at the Cyprus University of Technology in Limassol. Organized by the Confucius Institute at CUT in cooperation with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Cyprus, the event brought together students, academics, language enthusiasts and members of the local community for the celebration of Chinese language and culture.
This year’s competition welcomed 13 participants who advanced to the national final and showcased their Chinese language skills through speeches, cultural presentations, and artistic performances. As one of the world’s most recognized Chinese language competitions, “Chinese Bridge” promotes intercultural dialogue and educational exchange among young people across the globe.
During the opening ceremony, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Chinese Embassy in Cyprus Mr Zhou Yunliang emphasized the deeper meaning of language learning and international communication. In his speech, he stated: “Language is a carrier of civilization, a medium for exchange ideas, and bridge that connects the hearts and minds of people from different countries”
His words reflected the spirit of the event, highlighting how language can strengthen friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation between cultures.
Vice Rector of Financial Planning and Development at CUT Professor Evangelos Akylas also highlighted the importance of intercultural dialogue and the connection between Greek and Chinese civilizations. In his speech, he stated: “When these two great pillars stand together, they create a strong foundation for a future of global cooperation, peace and stability.”
Dr. Anna Nicolaou, local Director of the Confucius Institute at CUT, highlighted the growing interest in Chinese language learning at CUT and emphasized the role of the Confucius Institute in promoting cultural understanding. Addressed to the contestants, she noted: “Today, you are building bridges of communication, knowledge and mutual respect.”
Another memorable moment came from Mr Elias Vassiliou, Student Life Officer at CUT, who shared reflections from the recent educational visit of CUT students and staff to China, speaking about the experience. His remarks demonstrated how educational exchanges can create lasting friendships and deeper understanding between people from different countries.
In the closing remarks, Professor Hong Xu, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at CUT, praised the contestants for their dedication and enthusiasm: “In my heart, all of you are champions.”
The Chinese Bridge Competition 2026 held special significance as it was hosted for the first time by the Confucius Institute at CUT. It concluded with awards, congratulations to all participants, and best wishes for the winner who will represent Cyprus at the global finals. The successful organization of the event once again demonstrated the important role of the Confucius Institute at CUT in promoting cultural dialogue and educational collaboration between Cyprus and China.
Chinese Bridge Competition 2026: γιορτάζει τη γλώσσα και τον πολιτισμό στο ΤΕΠΑΚ
The 2026 Chinese Bridge Competition was successfully held on May 6, 2026, at the Cyprus University of Technology in Limassol. Organized by the Confucius Institute at CUT in cooperation with the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Cyprus, the event brought together students, academics, language enthusiasts and members of the local community for the celebration of Chinese language and culture.
This year’s competition welcomed 13 participants who advanced to the national final and showcased their Chinese language skills through speeches, cultural presentations, and artistic performances. As one of the world’s most recognized Chinese language competitions, “Chinese Bridge” promotes intercultural dialogue and educational exchange among young people across the globe.
During the opening ceremony, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Chinese Embassy in Cyprus Mr Zhou Yunliang emphasized the deeper meaning of language learning and international communication. In his speech, he stated: “Language is a carrier of civilization, a medium for exchange ideas, and bridge that connects the hearts and minds of people from different countries”
His words reflected the spirit of the event, highlighting how language can strengthen friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation between cultures.
Vice Rector of Financial Planning and Development at CUT Professor Evangelos Akylas also highlighted the importance of intercultural dialogue and the connection between Greek and Chinese civilizations. In his speech, he stated: “When these two great pillars stand together, they create a strong foundation for a future of global cooperation, peace and stability.”
Dr. Anna Nicolaou, local Director of the Confucius Institute at CUT, highlighted the growing interest in Chinese language learning at CUT and emphasized the role of the Confucius Institute in promoting cultural understanding. Addressed to the contestants, she noted: “Today, you are building bridges of communication, knowledge and mutual respect.”
Another memorable moment came from Mr Elias Vassiliou, Student Life Officer at CUT, who shared reflections from the recent educational visit of CUT students and staff to China, speaking about the experience. His remarks demonstrated how educational exchanges can create lasting friendships and deeper understanding between people from different countries.
In the closing remarks, Professor Hong Xu, Chinese Director of the Confucius Institute at CUT, praised the contestants for their dedication and enthusiasm: “In my heart, all of you are champions.”
The Chinese Bridge Competition 2026 held special significance as it was hosted for the first time by the Confucius Institute at CUT. It concluded with awards, congratulations to all participants, and best wishes for the winner who will represent Cyprus at the global finals. The successful organization of the event once again demonstrated the important role of the Confucius Institute at CUT in promoting cultural dialogue and educational collaboration between Cyprus and China.
