Brazil-China closer relations boost cultural exchange

Monks from the Shaolin Temple of China display their kung fu skills at the “Cultures of China, Festival of Spring” event at the City of Arts, one of Rio De Janeiro's newest music halls, March 5, 2015. A group of Chinese artists presented a performance to celebrate the Chinese lunar New Year and the 450th anniversary of the city's foundation. The program was organized by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the Chinese State Council. [Photo/Xinhua]

In addition to Chinese martial arts, Ma said, the Chinese language is also attracting an increasing number of Brazilians.

"Many people have searched to learn Mandarin," he said.

There are eight branches of the Confucius Institute in Brazil, with two Confucius classrooms at other institutions. Most of them are located in the southeastern region, where Chinese presence is more solid.

Moreover, there are also Confucius institutes in Brasilia, Porto Alegre and Recife, reflecting a growth in the demand for the Chinese language all over Brazil.

In addition, some of the local language schools also offer Chinese classes. As businesses between Brazil and China become more prominent, Brazilians' interest in the Chinese language rises as well.

The cultural exchange is bound to keep growing as Brazil and China boost their ties as strategic partners and their relations get closer over the years.