On the afternoon of April 16, under the sunshine at the Minhang Campus of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, a unique Sino-French dragon boat friendship race was held. This event aimed to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, as well as to build excitement for the upcoming French Olympic year. Through sports exchanges, it promoted the spirit of unity and cooperation, deepening the friendship between Chinese and French students.

At the event, Hu Weiwei, Deputy Party Secretary of Shanghai Jiao Tong University, and Olivier Perez, Head of Campus France Shanghai, jointly opened the friendship race with speeches.

In her speech, Hu Weiwei warmly welcomed the students from École Polytechnique, École des Mines de Paris, and ENSTA Paris. She emphasized that dragon boat racing is not only an important part of Chinese traditional culture but also a manifestation of the spirit of unity, cooperation, and striving. She looked forward to the activity helping Chinese and French students better understand each other's cultures, enhancing friendship and jointly pursuing progress and excellence.

Olivier Perez noted that this year is particularly significant for both China and France, marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations as well as the French Olympic and Sino-French Cultural Tourism Year. He highlighted the irreplaceable role of sports exchanges in promoting mutual understanding and friendship between Chinese and French people. He hoped that this dragon boat friendship race would bring Chinese and French students closer together, exploring new avenues for cooperation and development.

Chen Cailian, Party Secretary of the school, Frédéric Toumazet, French Dean of SPEIT, and Deputy Party Secretary Yao Xue also attended the event, witnessing this grand occasion of Sino-French cultural exchange.

In the intense race, the French team, composed of students from École Polytechnique and French students from Shanghai Jiao Tong University, competed fiercely against the Chinese team, formed by SPEIT students and members of the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Dragon Boat Club. They paddled vigorously, demonstrating great teamwork and the unique charm of dragon boat racing. The spectators were enthusiastic, with cheers and applause creating a lively atmosphere.

This Sino-French dragon boat friendship race not only allowed French students to experience the charm of traditional Chinese sports culture but also deepened their understanding of China's profound culture. Through the race, they strengthened their friendship and mutual understanding. The event underscored the importance of sportsmanship in Sino-French cultural exchanges. Through the universal language of sports, Chinese and French students were brought closer together, writing a new chapter of friendship and cooperation.