Attendees at the on-site venue of the opening ceremony for the first session of the 2022 Chinese Culture Land - Oceania Camp in Guilin pose for a group photo. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The first session of the 2022 Chinese Culture Land - Oceania Camp opened both online and on site at Guilin Tourism University (GLTU) in Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region on July 11.

A total of more than 200 Chinese students living in Oceanian countries such as New Zealand, Fiji and Vanuatu are participating in the 12-day event to get a closer look at traditional Chinese culture.

GLTU will arrange distinctive lessons such as Chinese ink painting, calligraphy, tea art, ethnic dancing and poems together with online presentations showcasing Guangxi and Guilin's natural scenery.

Zhong Hong, deputy head of GLTU's School of Continuing Education, expressed the hope that more overseas Chinese youths can feel the charm of traditional Chinese culture and have better sense of identity and belonging to China.

Cheng Haichao, director of Guilin overseas Chinese affairs office, noted that attendees of the event are expected to visit Guilin personally after the COVID-19 pandemic to see the splendid natural scenery in Guilin.

Jiang Jun of the Consulate General of China in Auckland delivered a video speech during the event, pointing out that the event is expected to create a strong atmosphere for the celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and New Zealand.