The China Disabled Persons' Federation (CDPF) hosted a Spring Festival sports and cultural exchange event on Jan 22. More than 200 attendees, including representatives from foreign embassies, UN agencies in China, international organizations and foreign enterprises, as well as relevant Chinese organizations attended the event.
Zhou Changkui, vice-president and chairperson of the Board of Executive Directors of the CDPF, delivered a speech at the event, while Vice-chairperson You Liang presided over the event.
Zhou expressed gratitude for the support from both domestic and international communities for the cause of persons with disabilities in China. He noted the CDPF's efforts in implementing policies and measures to safeguard the rights of persons with disabilities, improving the social security system for persons with disabilities, expanding care services, and leveraging technology to empower persons with disabilities.
He also highlighted China's achievements in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, noting the advancement of the cause of persons with disabilities in the broader context of national economic and social development. As a result, there has been a significant increase in the sense of fulfillment, happiness and security among persons with disabilities in China, he added.
Zhou reiterated the CDPF's commitment to international cooperation on disability affairs, and expressed willingness to continue working closely with UN agencies, embassies and international partners to further improve the welfare of persons with disabilities worldwide.
The French and Italian embassies, important supporters of the initiative, were represented at the event. France hosted last year's Paralympics, while Italy is set to host the Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin later this year and the 2026 Paralympic Winter Games in Milan.
Cristina Carenza, deputy head and minister of the Italian Embassy in China, praised the resilience, strength and determination of persons with disabilities. She said Italy is ready to deepen cooperation with China, especially in the field of parasports.
Romain Jacquet, health, social affairs and labor counselor from the French embassy to China, said sport embodies the values of equality, respect and inclusion. He added that France was committed to strengthening cooperation with international partners like China to build a more inclusive and united world.
Attendees, including the Japanese and Swiss ambassadors to China, joined artisans with disabilities in making handicrafts and participated in traditional Chinese New Year activities, experiencing the festive atmosphere of the Spring Festival and the charm of Chinese traditional culture. They also joined athletes with disabilities in activities such as wheelchair basketball, wheelchair curling, and boccia.
At the event, Paralympic table tennis champion Mao Jinjian, Paralympic ice hockey player Wang Zhidong and athletes with disabilities from France and Italy shared their stories of perseverance and in pursuit of their dreams. A performance by the China Disabled People's Performing Art Troupe was also presented at the event.