Yemen held its first celebration of UN Chinese Language Day in the southern port city of Aden on Sunday, an event organizers said marked a significant step in cultural exchanges with China amid Yemen's long-running conflict.

The event, organized under the auspices of the Chinese Embassy and held at Aden University's Faculty of Languages and Translation, gathered Yemeni officials, academics, and students, including the first cohort studying Chinese in the city.

Shao Zheng, the Chinese Embassy's charge d'affaires, addressed the attendees via video link. "Under the theme 'Chinese: A Gift Across Time and Space,' we gather today to experience the unique charm of the Chinese language and witness the depth of cultural exchanges between China and Yemen," Shao said.

He noted that Chinese is one of the world's oldest languages, carrying "the story of Chinese civilization spanning 5,000 years."

Mohamed Aqeel Attas, Aden University's vice-rector, highlighted the launch of Chinese language instruction alongside the celebration. "This represents a remarkable achievement, especially considering Yemen's current challenging circumstances," Attas stated, adding the university's commitment to building partnerships with Chinese institutions.

Chinese language classes began at the faculty in the second half of 2024, according to Dean Jamal Al-Jaadani. He cited China's status as the world's second-largest economy, its role as a permanent UN Security Council member, and student enthusiasm as drivers for introducing the language.

The celebration featured calligraphy demonstrations and cultural performances. It was followed by Yemen's first "Chinese Bridge" language proficiency competition for college students, an international contest assessing language skills and cultural knowledge.

Academics and students emphasised the growing importance of Sino-Arab ties. "The flourishing economic and political ties between China and Arab nations ... underscore the importance of deeper engagement with Chinese language and culture," said Abdulnasser Mohammed Al Naqeeb, a translation professor at the university.

Zaid Awad, a student, noted the practical benefits: "The expanding diplomatic relations ... have created significant demand for qualified translators ... This skill opens new professional opportunities for Yemeni youth."

UN Chinese Language Day has been observed annually on April 20 since 2010, coinciding with "Guyu" (Grain Rain) in the traditional Chinese calendar to honour Cangjie, credited legendarily with inventing Chinese characters.

Yemen has been devastated by conflict since late 2014, leading to what the United Nations calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. For many young Yemenis in the impoverished nation, learning foreign languages represents a pathway to improved employment prospects.