On April 25, the Confucius Institute at Botswana International University of Science and Technology (BIUST) held an event to celebrate the “International Chinese Language Day”. Ambassador Fan Yong attended the event and delivered a keynote speech. Professor Otlogetswe Totolo, Vice Chancellor of BIUST, Dr. Tsaona Mokgwathi, acting local Director of the  Confucius Institute of BIUST, and Prof. Gao Yingze, Director of the Confucius Institute of BIUST participated in the event.

Ambassador Fan said that Chinese is one of the languages with the largest number of speakers in the world. He is very delighted to see that more and more people in Botswana are increasingly passionate about learning Chinese language and Chinese culture. The year 2025 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Botswana. Under the guidance of the Global Civilization Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping, China is willing to continuously enhance people-to-people exchanges and culture cooperation between the two countries.

Totolo said that Chinese culture is one of the oldest civilizations in the world. Chinese serves as a bridge connecting history, art and modern innovation. He hopes that Botswana students will study Chinese earnestly, so as to contribute to strengthening friendship and cultural exchanges between Botswana and China.

This event is themed "Chinese Language: A Gifts Across Time and Space". Participants tasted Chinese cuisine, took part in interactive games and experienced the beauty of Chinese culture.