Zhang Yu

JeniZhang13@163.com

CHINESE and French literary experts gathered for a vibrant discussion at the Sino-French Intercultural Dialogue at the Shenzhen Book City CBD Store in Futian District on Monday, analyzing the charm of languages and the significance of cultural exchanges and mutual learning.

The closing ceremony of the Shenzhen Publishing House French Books Exhibition was also held during the event.

As a key themed activity of the 24th Shenzhen Reading Month, the intercultural dialogue aimed to promote exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and French civilizations, and to highlight Shenzhen’s commitment to becoming an international reading and cultural exchange hub.

The dialogue featured prominent figures such as Joel Bellassen, a French sinologist and president of the Paris-based European Association for Chinese Teaching, and acclaimed French novelist Muriel Barbery. Stephane Joly, director of Alliance Française Shenzhen, as well as Chinese French scholars Hu Sishe, Xu Jun, Zhang Chi, and Hu Xiaoyue were also active participants.

International cultural exchange is a major highlight of this year’s Shenzhen Reading Month. As the year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France and the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, cultural exchanges between the two countries receive ever-increasing attention.

Shenzhen Publishing House is the earliest publishing house in China to enter the French market for copyright trade negotiations. Since 1998, it has introduced and published nearly 200 excellent French books, with the largest number in the country, according to the publishing house.

The recently concluded Shenzhen Publishing House French Books Exhibition showcased nearly 200 books published by Shenzhen Publishing House (formerly Haitian Publishing House) over the past 20 years.

Hu Xiaoyue, chief editor of Shenzhen Publishing House and manager of Hu Xiaoyue Publishing Studio, stated that the exhibition included works from renowned French writers, award-winning literary works, and selections known for their innovative ideas or expressions.

“The exhibition aimed to introduce international elements to Shenzhen Reading Month and portray the city’s image of openness and inclusiveness,” Hu said.