Syrian Students Embark on a Journey of Learning Chinese179

As Syria slowly recovers from the ravages of war, a growing number of Syrians are turning to the study of Chinese in the hope of tapping into the vast economic opportunities that the country offers.

China has become Syria's largest trading partner, and Chinese companies are increasingly investing in the country's reconstruction. The demand for Arabic-speaking Chinese translators and interpreters has skyrocketed, and many Syrians see learning Chinese as a way to secure a better future for themselves and their families.

One of the most popular destinations for Syrian students looking to study Chinese is Shanghai, China's largest city and a major economic hub. In recent years, several Chinese universities have opened up branches in Shanghai, offering a wide range of Chinese language courses.

Syrian student Mona Al-Haddad is one of the many who have traveled to Shanghai to study Chinese. She chose Shanghai because of its reputation as a global city and because it is home to a large Syrian community.

"I came to Shanghai because I wanted to learn Chinese and experience Chinese culture," Al-Haddad said. "I also wanted to meet other Syrian students and make new friends."

Al-Haddad has been studying Chinese for two years, and she is now fluent in the language. She plans to stay in Shanghai for another year to complete her master's degree in Chinese language and literature.

Another Syrian student, Omar Al-Khaled, came to Shanghai to study business. He hopes to one day start his own business in China.

"I chose to study business in Shanghai because I believe that China has a lot to offer Syrian students," Al-Khaled said. "I want to learn about Chinese business practices and culture so that I can be successful in my own ventures."

Al-Khaled is currently in his second year of undergraduate studies at a Chinese university. He is majoring in international business and minoring in Chinese language.

The number of Syrian students studying Chinese in Shanghai is still relatively small, but it is growing rapidly. In 2016, there were only a few dozen Syrian students enrolled in Chinese universities. Today, there are hundreds.

The influx of Syrian students is a testament to the growing ties between Syria and China. As China's economic footprint in Syria continues to expand, the demand for Arabic-speaking Chinese professionals will only increase.

2024-10-16

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