On the occasion of Global Confucius Institute Day, on behalf of the Chinese Embassy in London, I send warmest greetings to the teachers and students of Confucius Institutes as well as Chinese language learners across the UK!

Ten years ago, the world’s first Confucius Institute was opened. Ten years on, a total of 467 Confucius Institutes and 714 Confucius Classrooms have been set up in 123 countries offering Chinese language course for 150 million people all over the world.

Language is a bridge connecting different cultures and peoples. Confucius Institute has become a base for promoting the beautiful Chinese language, a window for peoples around the world to gain knowledge of China, a platform for cross-cultural exchange and cooperation and a positive energy for building a harmonious world.

Over the decade, thanks to the concerted efforts of China and the UK, Britain has become a leader in teaching Chinese language and communicating Chinese culture. It boasts 25 Confucius Institutes, 94 Confucius Classrooms, well-developed teaching methods and a variety of choices for learners at different stages. I hope through your continued efforts, the seeds of communication and exchange will take root, branch out and bear more fruits of friendship and cooperation.

I wish the Global Confucius Day and 10th Anniversary of Confucius Institute cultural show tour a great success!