China center in Mauritius promotes cultural exchanges

The file photo shows students practicing martial arts at China Cultural Center in Mauritius. [Photo: Chinaplus]

The China Cultural Center in Mauritius, situated in the southwest of the capital city Port Louis, is playing an increasingly important role in promoting cultural exchanges between China and Mauritius. 

A dozen students are here with their teacher at one of the center's Chinese language training courses

People from the community in Port Louis are also coming to the center to learn Kong Fu, try their hand at Chinese paintings, and learn how to play some traditional Chinese musical instruments.

Song Yanqun, the director of the cultural center, talks with us about the role of the center in introducing Chinese culture to Mauritius. 

"The cultural center offers a platform for local residents to learn Chinese culture. We have trained a lot of Kong Fu lovers, who in turn help to carry forward the spirit of Chinese martial art. Now, we have a dance crew that performs Chinese folk dances. Recently, we choreographed a dance drama, which tells a splendid story about the pilgrimage of Xuan Zang, one of the most eminent monks in Chinese history. "

Natish Mogun started learning Kong Fu at the center shortly after it was established 30 years ago. 

The 65-year-old says his decades of practice have helped to keep him in good shape and rid him of the migraines he used to have. 

"After six month of practice, I got relief from my symptoms. Now, I'm healthy and I don't need to go the doctor. 

Zhang Jie is a Kong Fu coach at the center. Zhang was the winner of multiple titles in national Kong Fu competitions, before becoming a coach to around 200 students. 

He said he was impressed by the passion of people in Mauritius to learn Kong Fu.

"They have shown even greater passion than people in China. They really love martial arts, and they are willing to spend hours and hours to practice everyday. I'm very proud that I can help more people around the world to learn about Chinese Kong Fu."

Established in 1988, the center in Mauritius was China's first overseas cultural center

As well as the variety of training courses on offer, the center also organizes activities for the community in Port Louis, such as artistic performances and food festivals.