BUJUMBURA, May 16 (Xinhua) -- The fifth edition of the "China and Me" story-writing contest was held Thursday evening at the Chinese embassy in the Burundian commercial capital of Bujumbura, an event officials said greatly strengthened people-to-people ties between the two countries.
"This event is extremely important as it is part of the strengthening of friendship and cooperation between Burundi and China through story-writing. Videos and articles produced by the laureates constitute an indelible link between our two peoples," said Ferdinand Bashikako, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, in his remarks.
Nearly 60 articles and videos were brought to the story-writing competition. Candidates included Burundian diplomats, journalists, teachers, students, civil servants and employees from Chinese companies based in Burundi. In total, 10 laureates won the awards in three categories.
"The Burundian people are proud of the relations of friendship and cooperation between Burundi and China and the multifaceted cooperation set up by the Chinese government, notably through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC)," Bashikako said.
He said that the Burundian president, during his visit to Beijing in September 2024, commended the Chinese action plan on the Sino-African cooperation. "These commendable actions are in line with Burundi's development goals," he added.
"I hope that all candidates in this story-writing contest have the opportunity to discover and understand the Chinese experience in economic growth," said Bashikako.
In her remarks, Chinese Ambassador to Burundi Zhao Jiangping said "this 'China and Me' story-writing contest opened windows on cultural and educational cooperation that constitutes a pillar for bilateral cooperation."
Thanks to the close collaboration between Chinese and Burundian universities, more and more Burundian youth get interested in the Chinese culture, she said, adding that since the creation of the Confucius Institute 10 years ago at the University of Burundi, nearly 30,000 people have learned the Chinese language.
"Every year, Burundian students are sent to China to continue their training in various sectors, and when they return home, they make contributions to the development of their country," said Zhao.
"This year marks the 25th anniversary of FOCAC's establishment. China is ready to implement partnership actions announced during the summit held in Beijing in September 2024, while promoting exchanges in the sectors of culture, education and women's empowerment to reach sustainable and inclusive development and to construct a community of shared future," the ambassador said. ■
