In celebration of the 60th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic relations, on December 14th, a significant pétanque (boules) invitational tournament unfolded at the Lingxiu · Guihe Shopping Center in Jinan, the City of Springs. Over 200 boules enthusiasts from China and France gathered not only to share in the joy of the sport but also to explore intangible cultural heritage, creating a vibrant new chapter of friendship.

The event showcased intense and thrilling competitions, with participants displaying their skills and exchanging smiles, contributing to the harmonious atmosphere. Despite the seemingly simple act of throwing a boule, the sport involves intricate calculations and precision.

The lively competition drew the curiosity of onlookers passing through the shopping center. The successful event not only deepened mutual understanding among participants from China and France but also symbolized the collisions of boules as moments of enhanced friendship between the two nations. In this moment, pétanque represents communication, exchange, and camaraderie.

Adding a thoughtful touch to the event, a tea break area was arranged, offering a variety of exquisite tea delicacies. After an exhilarating boules duel, participants sat down, indulging in tea and conversation, further embedding the boules lifestyle into their hearts.

Moreover, an area dedicated to China's intangible cultural heritage was set up, featuring activities such as mother-of-pearl inlay, wooden comb crafting, gourd pyrography, and sugar painting. This allowed French participants to not only engage in sports and cultural exchange but also experience China's rich traditional culture, fostering a deeper understanding.

Philippe, a young participant from France, expressed his delight at meeting Chinese youth and boules enthusiasts in Jinan. He praised Jinan as a beautiful city and was thrilled to see so many boules enthusiasts in China. Hoping for more international exchange events in the future, he aspired to strengthen the understanding and knowledge of boules among young people in both countries.

Following the exploration of Jinan's intangible cultural heritage, Philippe remarked that Jinan is a city with a profound cultural heritage, unique traditional culture, and the nourishment of natural springs. He found the people of Jinan to be warm and welcoming, expressing his desire to visit Jinan again with his family.

Pétanque, a popular sport in France, holds particular significance as next year marks the 60th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic relations. Jinan plans to utilize a series of events to promote the popularization of pétanque, cultivating fertile ground for the sport. Through sports diplomacy, where the small boule sets the larger sphere in motion, Sino-French friendship is expected to flourish.

Jinan is committed to delving deeper into its unique cultural characteristics and establishing signature sports events and brands. The city aims to present Jinan to the world, fostering global awareness and promoting cultural harmony through dialogue. With friendship as the vessel, Jinan endeavors to cultivate the flower of mutual trust, cooperation, and shared prosperity.

(Li Xiaotong; Hua Shan; Yuan Yuhua; Hou Yawen; Liu Xiaohan; Lou Xinyu; Liang Ruixin）