In honor of the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return to China, the “UniTea: Macao Tea Melody” event was held at Beijing International Sculpture Park, bringing together tea enthusiasts from around the world. Organized by CGTN and CRI Online, the event used tea as a bridge for cultural exchange.
Leong Kit Chi, Chief of the Macao Special Administrative Region Government Office in Beijing, emphasized Macao’s historic role as a key port on the Maritime Silk Road, facilitating the global spread of Chinese tea. “Macao has always been a meeting point of Eastern and Western cultures,” she stated in a video message. “We are proud to share our rich tea heritage with the world.”
The Ambassador of Morocco to China, Abdelkader El Ansari, highlighted the deep connection between Chinese tea and Moroccan culture. “Moroccan mint tea, made with Chinese green tea, is a symbol of our hospitality and daily life,” he said. “This event strengthens the bonds between our countries.”
The celebration featured demonstrations of traditional tea ceremonies, including the intricate kung fu tea ritual from China’s Greater Bay Area. Attendees also enjoyed flower arranging sessions with the lotus, Macao’s official flower, and performances on the guqin, an ancient Chinese string instrument.
A highlight of the event was a friendly contest between a tea master and an AI-powered tea-brewing machine. This captivating display showcased the blend of tradition and technology, emphasizing that while innovation brings convenience, the human touch remains essential in preserving cultural heritage. “The tea ceremony is about more than just tea,” remarked one guest. “It’s about sharing stories and connecting people.”
As the event concluded, guests received special “tea passports,” symbolizing unity through the shared culture of tea. The “UniTea” theme reflected not only a celebration of Macao’s past but also a commitment to a future where cultures blend harmoniously over a simple cup of tea.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
