Kuwaiti-Chinese display of traditional tea ceremony as part of “My Cultural Summer 18” - Sarmad
(KUNA) – The National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters and the Chinese Cultural Center in Kuwait showcased traditional Chinese tea-making ceremonies today, Sunday, as part of the “Summer Cultural Festival 18,” aiming to enhance cultural exchange and highlight the similarities and convergences between Chinese and Arab tea cultures.
Dr. Mohammed Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of the Council, said in a statement that the event is the result of cooperation and partnership between the Council and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening cultural exchange and communication between the peoples of the two friendly countries.
Al-Jassar added that the event offers more than just an introduction to the preparation and serving of tea; it opens a window onto an authentic aspect of Chinese culture and introduces attendees to rituals and values passed down through generations.
He noted that observing Kuwaiti and Arab tea ceremonies alongside Chinese tea ceremonies embodies the convergence of cultures, human bonds, and shared daily customs among peoples and civilizations, despite differences in time and place.
He emphasized that in many cultures, tea is not merely a daily habit but a means of communication, bringing people together and bridging distances. He pointed out that the moment of preparing and serving tea embodies values of hospitality, respect, tranquility, and dialogue—values that transcend linguistic and geographical boundaries.
Al-Jassar expressed his hope for more joint events and initiatives that enrich Kuwait’s cultural landscape and strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
For his part, Chinese Ambassador to Kuwait Yang Xing told the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) that the event falls within the framework of cooperation between the Chinese Cultural Center and the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, reflecting the depth of cultural convergence and exchange between the two friendly countries.
He added that this year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Kuwait and the People’s Republic of China, underscoring the existence of broad areas for enhancing cultural cooperation.
He noted that the Chinese Cultural Center in Kuwait is the first Chinese cultural center in a Gulf country and serves as an important bridge and platform for cultural exchange and enhanced communication between the Kuwaiti and Chinese peoples.
The event featured introductory presentations and exhibitions on tea culture, interactive experiences, an exhibition of tea utensils, and sessions for tasting selected varieties of tea and traditional sweets representing the cultures of China and the Arab world.
