More than 200 embassy officials from over 90 countries gathered at the opening of the 2010 Friendship Communication of Ambassadors and Madams on Knowing Chinese Culture, on Monday, to get a taste of Chinese tea culture.

More than 200 embassy officials from over 90 countries gathered at the opening of the 2010 Friendship Communication of Ambassadors and Madams on Knowing Chinese Culture, on Monday, to get a taste of Chinese tea culture.

Xing Jun, secretary general of its sponsor, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), said the activity was being held for the 8th successive year.

The focus this year is China's tea culture, and a Chinese Tea Art Learning and Competition is being held in April for the diplomats.

In May, more than 100 envoys will travel to Yongchuan, Chongqing, to take part in the "Yongchuan International Tea Cultural Festival".

Elma Campbell, Bahamas Ambassador to China, recalled the giant Chinese character for "tea" displayed at the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympic Games, adding she was amazed to see the tea varieties, complex tea rituals, and exquisite tea sets on display.

CPAFFC is planning many other themed activities showcasing such aspects as China's ethnic culture, photography and folk songs, as this year is also "Chinese Expo Tourism Year".

(China Daily April 1, 2010)