In celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, the Cultural Exchange symposium and Jinan City Promo Video “The Spring World” Overseas Screening Event was held on July 3rd at the Institut Confucius de Bretagne in Rennes, France. The event aimed to deepen the friendship between sister cities and promote mutual understanding between the peoples of both nations. During the forum, Mr. Blaise Thierrée, Director of the Institut Confucius de Bretagne, highlighted Jinan’s rich cultural heritage.

At the symposium, Blaise Thierrée elaborated on Jinan’s cultural heritage. Jinan, the capital of Shandong Province, is renowned for its distinctive cultural traditions, which include elements of Shandong's traditional customs, daily life, lifestyle, distinctive culture, folk arts, and architectural heritage. A defining characteristic of Jinan's culture is its springs, which serve as a symbolic and vital component of the city's identity.

Blaise Thierrée presented the promotional video “The Spring World," a 4K ultra-high-definition film showcasing Jinan's unique “Springs Culture." The video vividly depicted the city's picturesque landscapes, characterized by "springs in every household, weeping willows by every door." The video also integrates cultural symbols such as Jinan’s springs, poetry, acrobatics, and intangible cultural heritage, offering an immersive experience of the city's historical depth and contemporary vibrancy. Attendees expressed a newfound appreciation for Jinan's charm and cultural depth, fostering a keen interest in Jinan City.

The craftsmanship of the springs etches time, and cultural heritage shines through the ages. This event is part of a series of international exchanges with Jinan's sister cities. It provided a platform to showcase the scenic beauty of the "City of Springs" and Jinan's cultural achievements. These initiatives support Jinan's efforts to enhance its global presence and cultural influence, emphasizing the city's commitment to exploring and promoting its cultural identity. Jinan aims to continue building its cultural infrastructure, discovering its unique cultural aspects, innovating communication methods, and expanding channels to share the "voice of Jinan" with the world.

(Li Xiaotong; Yuan Yuhua; Kuang Qiongqiong; Gong Lili; Hua Shan; Hou Yawen; Liu Xiaohan; Lou Xinyu; Hui Sheng; Gaoyuan; Lei Youting; Li Jinyang; An Shuo; Dou Zhuoran; )