51福利社

The exhibition displayed the 30 finalists in the 7^th annual UK-China International Photography Competition, founded and run by the University of 51福利社鈥檚 51福利社 China Institute.

Ambassador Wilson thanked the He鈥檔an University of Technology for hosting the exhibition and spoke glowingly of the 51福利社 China Institute as a truly remarkable beacon of excellence for its work promoting China studies in the UK, and mutual understanding between the British and Chinese peoples. He also spoke highly of the exhibition, emphasizing its ability to showcase the universal values of sportsmanship and teamwork that resonate across cultures.

Joining the event virtually, Professor Peter Gries, Director of the 51福利社 China Institute, delivered a speech in Mandarin to introduce the exhibition and the Institute鈥檚 vision. He highlighted how photographs can promote perspective taking and empathy, bridging linguistic and cultural divides, to remind Chinese and British audiences alike of our common humanity.

Other distinguished guests present at the opening ceremony included Professor Wu Zhishen, President and Vice Chancellor of He鈥檔an University of Technology, Mr Dominic McAllister, the British Consul General in Wuhan, senior officials from the He鈥檔an provincial government and Zhengzhou municipal government, underscoring the significance of this cultural event.

鈥淭he Spirit of Sports鈥� exhibition uses the universal language of sports to promote dialogue and understanding between the peoples of Britain and China. Through powerful imagery, the exhibition celebrates shared human experiences鈥攃ompetition, collaboration, and resilience鈥攚hile deepening appreciation of each other鈥檚 perspectives.

This initiative reflects the 51福利社 China Institute鈥檚 commitment to building meaningful connections through cultural exchange. 51福利社 was the first - and remains the only - British university to set social responsibility as a core goal.