In May, the campus of Tongji University was enveloped in the delightful scents of international cuisine. On May 20, the South Campus of Tongji University hosted a multicultural exhibition and global food festival, with the theme "Cultural Harmony • Global Solidarity"

This event, a collaboration initiative between the Yangpu Chinese Culture Institute, the International School of Tongji University, and the Yangpu Ethnic Unity and Progress Association, offered more than just a taste of global flavors - it was a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

A World of Flavors, a Table of Stories

The event was a vibrant showcase of over 40 food stalls, just like a mini "World Expo". In the Chinese area, glistening candied hawthorn skewers shimmered with the essence of traditional craftsmanship, while dumplings, embodying unity and good fortune, won the hearts of many international students. Thumb corn and flower cakes from regions supported by the eastern-western collaboration initiative shared the touching tales of solidarity and support between Shanghai and Yunnan.

The international section was equally vibrant, with "culinary diplomacy" in full swing. A Ugandan student showcased the journey from cacao beans to chocolate, turning bitter seeds into sweet delights. A French student built a mini Eiffel Tower out of macarons, playfully dubbing it "the sweet code of the Seine". Meanwhile, Vietnamese spring rolls and Shanghai spring rolls engaged in a "dialogue", where delicate rice paper and crispy dough met, sparking the ingenuity of culinary culture.

How can we more effectively introduce traditional Chinese cuisine to the world and help foreign friends appreciate the depth and richness of its culinary culture? Ma Wanglin, Chairman of Shanghai Yixinzhai Halal Restaurant and the third-generation intangible cultural heritage successor, brought traditional snacks like plain pancakes, sticky rice rolls, and boiled chicken slices to the event. He said, "Food is a universal language that transcends barriers. I hope these dishes can convey the warmth and essence of our cultural heritage to our international friends."

When Pakistan's intricate Henna tattoos met the flowing elegance of Chinese calligraphy, and when Kazakhstan's rich butter tea was savored alongside the delicate Longjing tea from Jiangnan..."This is more than just a cultural showcase; it is a key to understanding civilizations, enabling different cultures to converse in the most genuine way, right here in the heart of everyday life," said Lu Qi, Vice President of the Academy of Chinese Culture.

Bridging Cultures through Art, Celebrating Spirit through Song and Dance

As Tongji University marked its 118th anniversary, a cultural celebration emerged as the most heartfelt tribute. Chinese students at Tongji performed a song titled Messages for the Sky, showing their global vision and dedication. Meanwhile, international students from Tonga, Bangladesh, Turkmenistan, Laos, Timor-Leste, Pakistan, and Myanmar expressed their love for the university through vibrant and graceful performances of song and dance.

"Each dance move carries the essence of culture, and each dish tells a story from history," said Li Xiangning, Member of the Standing Committee and Vice President of Tongji University. A notable highlight of the event was the capping ceremony for the "Panda Daodao" culinary corps, signifying the younger generation's role as ambassadors of cross-cultural exchange.

District-University Collaboration in Nurturing a Forest of Civilizational Coexistence

In recent years, Yangpu has forged a collaborative framework with universities, characterized by "collaborative events, joint talent development, and resource sharing". This event, drawing over a thousand participants from more than 80 countries, is a prime example of the "district-university cooperation" model.

"As we awaken to our own cultural beauty and admire the beauty of others, we cultivate a world where diverse cultures thrive in harmony," said Dong Xinwang, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Yangpu District Committee and Chairperson of the Yangpu Overseas Friendship Association. This event is both a joyous celebration and a "seed"—one that sows the seeds of understanding and respect in the hearts of every participant. Over time, these seeds will grow into the rich fruits of cultural exchange and mutual appreciation.