Chinese and international students attend a reading session of The Analects at Southeast University in Nanjing, Jiangsu. [Photo/Southeast University]

In celebration of the World Book Day and International Chinese Language Day, Southeast University in Nanjing, Jiangsu organized a reading session of The Analects on April 20, aiming to explore Confucian philosophy and foster cross-cultural dialogue.

Participating Chinese and international students were divided into groups to discuss classic passages from The Analects, an ancient Chinese text composed of sayings and ideas attributed to Confucius and his contemporaries.

A Belarusian student studying Chinese shared a connection to the phrase, "Isn't it a pleasure to have friends come from afar?" and remarked, "As an international student who traveled thousands of miles to China for my studies, I felt the warmth and friendliness of my Chinese friends and formed lasting bonds during my unforgettable time in China."

A Pakistani doctoral student reflected on the quote, "When parents are alive, one should not travel far, and if one must, there should be a clear destination," and noted, "This saying resonates with me because it shows the similarity between Chinese and Pakistani cultures in terms of filial piety. We both respect and care for our elders."

Other participants shared classical sayings and proverbs from their respective countries. Through these exchanges, the students experienced the international influence of Confucian thought and discovered common ground among diverse cultures.

Participants visit the "World Literature Salon" in Nanjing. [Photo/Southeast University]