XIAMEN PCG DONATES PHILIPPINE PUBLICATIONS AND CULTURAL ITEMS TO XIAMEN UNIVERSITY

• • • • • • • • • Top Left: CG Flores donating an original painting by Filipino visual artist Ernesto “Aris” Bagtas to Vice Dean Shi Xueqin of Xiamen University
                • Top Right: L-R. Vice Consul Ria Gorospe, CG Julius Caesar Flores and Vice Dean Shi Xueqin

In commemoration of the 40^th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and China as well as the 20^th Anniversary of its establishment, the Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen, donated in a simple turn-over ceremony on 30 July 2015 to Xiamen University’s International Relations Department/Research School for Southeast Asian Studies the following items:

1. 1. 1. Fifty five (55) volumes of Philippine publications comprising publications on Philippine history, literature and culture as well as the life and contributions of the ethnic Chinese in the Philippines;
      2. An original painting entitled “Harmony” depicting “Unity-in-diversity” theme and integration process of the the 10 ASEAN-member countries by Filipino visual artist Ernesto “Aris” Bagtas;
      3. One (1) set of sungka;
      4. One (1) set of Capiz platters;
      5. One (1) Capiz frame;
      6. A mother-of-pearl jewelry box;
      7. Abaca mats and throw pillows; and,
      8. Table mats of indigenous fabrics.

In his message, Consul General underscored the importance of academic linkages and exchanges in strengthening and enhancing relations between the Philippines and China.

Xiamen University Vice Dean for International Relations Department and Research School for South East Asian Studies, Professor Shi Xueqin received the donations and expressed appreciation for the Philippine Consulate General’s generosity and assured the latter that the donated materials will be given an appropriate place in the Department’s Display Room and library. She was joined by Professors Shen Hongfang, Nie Dening and Associate professors Xu Ke, Li Meiting and Yu Yuan during the ceremony.

Prof. Shi gave the assurance that Xiamen University will continue to collaborate with the Philippine Consulate General in Xiamen on various academic endeavors, including the possible hosting of Ballet Philippines in October 2015 and an academic forum symposium in Manila in early 2016 to attract more Filipino students to consider studying at Xiamen University’s International Relations Department.

Consul General echoed the same sentiments and assured the university professors of the Consulate General’s support in bringing the Philippines and Fujian province closer through increased people-to-people contacts. END

• • • • • • • • Top Left: CG Flores receiving a token from Vice Dean Shi Xueqin of Xiamen University.
              • Top Right: CG Julius Caesar Flores and Vice Dean Shi Xueqin (middle) with Xiamen PCG officials and Xiamen University professors