As the University of Vienna is approached its tenth anniversary, the Confucius Institute there hosted a China-theme celebration activity on august 10.

During the activity, visiting painter Zhao Yusheng introduced the audience to Chinese calligraphy and wrote Chinese names for them one after another. In addition, she presented the characteristics of traditional Chinese wash painting and extemporized painting on spot. The audience present was stunned at her work on bamboo and peony. In the introduction and performance, the audience personally witnessed the characteristics and unique charm of Chinese calligraphy and traditional Chinese wash.

Dr. Zhou Hui, Deputy Dean of the Confucius Institute gave a wonderful Chinese class. She mentioned the two biggest difficulties involved in learning Chinese: tones and characters. In a short period of time, the audience along with Dr. Zhou practiced the four tones and wrote "Austria”, "China” and other Chinese characters. Their strong interest in Chinese fully came out in the class.

Professor Li Xiade, Dean of the institute gave a brief introduction on the Chinese teaching situation in Austrian middle schools and the Confucius Institute working with relevant organizations to introduce Chinese into the Austrian examination system as a foreign subject as soon as possible.

In addition, Professor Weiglin-Schwiedrizik, Deputy Dean of the Culture Department of the university expounded on her research on the health care situation in Kashgar, Xinjiang.

Chinese ambassador to Austria, Wu Ken and Dr, Liu Lixin, Director of the Education Department were also present at the activity. Zhang Li, Dr. Liu Lixin’s wife performed on the zither to express a mood of celebration.

The activity was held on the beautiful university campus. Although it was summer holiday, more than 80 people participated in the event. Through various activities they experienced the long history of Chinese culture as well as its unique charm. They deepened their understanding of China and Chinese culture. This is a good example given by the Confucius Institute as it expands its influence in Austria and helps more and more local people understand China and Chinese culture.

Xinhua Web, Godpp, Learn-Chinese-Language and Austria Television Station reported on the activity.