Lu Huaiqian
26 Sept 2022
The rising popularity of the Chinese language in the wider New Zealand society is a reflection of the ever closer relations between the two countries, said Chinese Ambassador to New Zealand Wang Xiaolong.
WELLINGTON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The opening reception of New Zealand Chinese Language Week 2022 was held on Monday evening at the Grand Hall of Parliament Buildings in Wellington.
During this week, New Zealand will host a series of traditional Chinese cultural activities.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern extended her congratulations to the event in a video speech starting with greetings in Chinese.
"Since 2014, New Zealand Chinese language week has helped promote and encourage Chinese language learning here in New Zealand," she said.
Ardern encouraged more New Zealanders to learn the Chinese language. "Our country is home to more than 240,000 Chinese New Zealanders who all play a significant role in contributing to our diverse culture. Communicating with someone in their language let you see things from a different perspective. So even if it is as simple as learning a new greeting, I encourage you to give Chinese a go this week."