Chinese New Year

Last week I attended a reception at the Senedd to mark Chinese New Year. Despite the difficulties facing China at the moment it was an upbeat event, celebrating Chinese and Welsh culture and the long-standing connection between the two countries through business, culture and academia.

The Minister for International Relations and Welsh Language, Eluned Morgan, AM, hosted the event, which was also attended by Minister Chen Wen from the Chinese Embassy. Ahead of the event local schoolchildren had submitted art, poetry and photography depicting friendship between Wales and China, with the winning pieces on show. There was also a great performance of the iconic traditional Lion Dance.

When addressing attendees, Eluned Morgan expressed her sympathies to those affected by the Coronavirus outbreak, offering words of support and encouragement that were very much welcomed by those attending from the Chinese Embassy.   

As you will have read in recent communications, the University continues to monitor the Coronavirus situation very closely and is in regular contact with Public Health Wales and other official government bodies, to respond to official advice and guidance. Our Chinese colleagues and students are an integral part of our diverse culture here at the University. During these difficult times we must do all we can to support all those affected by or concerned about the impact of the Coronavirus outbreak– in China or elsewhere.

Further guidance and information on support available can be found here.