The Chaozhou Drum, listed as a national intangible cultural heritage of China, has integrated elements of Wushu to establish the Hungary-Chaozhou International Cultural Exchange and Communication Base here on Sunday.
Acting as a cultural bridge, Wushu brought together the Chao Xiang Drum Club from Chaozhou, Guangdong Province, and the Chan Wu Federation in Hungary. Both sides committed to creating a new model of cultural and sports cooperation in Hungary and across Europe.
"This marks not only a new starting point for cultural exchanges between China and Hungary, but also a significant milestone for the joint development of Wushu and Chaozhou culture in Europe," said Mike Sandor, vice president of the Chan Wu Federation, during the signing ceremony.
"We will promote the wider dissemination of Chinese culture in Europe and inject new vitality into the friendship between the peoples of China and Hungary," Sandor added.
Founded in 2003 as the European headquarters of the International Chan Wu Alliance, the Chan Wu Federation in Hungary includes 15 member organizations covering Wushu, Taiji, traditional Chinese medicine, tea culture, calligraphy, and lion and dragon dance.
"We strive to synchronize the rhythms of Chaozhou drum performances with Wushu techniques, aiming to showcase both Chinese culture and Hungarian local customs. Through this effort, we seek to foster harmonious cultural exchanges that resonate with people from both nations," said Li Kangdi, chairman of the Chao Xiang Drum Club.
Hungarian cultural enthusiast Julia Balo has long shown an interest in Chinese traditions through language study, literature, and Taiji practice.
"Chinese culture is totally different from European culture, so it is essential to understand each other. I have learned a lot from Chinese culture. My favorite book is Sun Tzu's The Art of War, which teaches me in everyday life," Balo said.
"I began studying Chinese at the age of 50 and have practiced Taiji for over 10 years. Now, I am eager to try playing the drum," she added.
