International students pose for a photo with a panda robot. [Photo/Tianjin Daily]

The welcome ceremony for the 6th Chinese Bridge Chinese Show for Foreign Primary School Students Summer Camp was held in Tianjin on Sept 14, bringing together 83 young contestants and 105 accompanying parents from around the world.

Held at Tianjin Normal University beside Qiushui Lake, the event marked the 25th anniversary of the Chinese Bridge program, which has become a platform for language learning and cultural exchange among young people worldwide.

This year's event combines Chinese language learning with cultural experiences under the theme "Chinese, Joy & Fun!", centering on "Discover Tianjin, Discover China, Discover the Future". The welcome ceremony featured traditional Chinese performing arts such as Peking Opera, fan dancing, and traditional magic, as well as a lively dancing panda robot.

A highlight was a collaborative bridge-decorating activity, in which guests and contestants from different countries used personalized stickers to create an image symbolizing friendship and connection across cultures.

During their stay in Tianjin, the young participants will take part in talent performances, speeches, written tests and multiple rounds of competition, culminating in a grand final. The competition will produce winners of individual awards, five continental champions, and one global champion.

Through learning, play, and cultural exploration, the event aims to make Chinese more accessible and enjoyable for young learners while fostering friendship and mutual understanding.