2026 China-EU Table Tennis Friendship Tournament: A Bridge Between Two Continents

Over two days, at the Royal Alpa Table Tennis Club in Brussels, Belgium, the Friendship Table Tennis Tournament between the Chinese Mission to the European Union and representatives of EU institutions took place in a lively atmosphere. This was one of the meaningful people-to-people diplomacy activities of 2026, helping to strengthen the friendship between the people of China and the people of European countries through a sport beloved by the wider public. Twenty-four athletes took part in the tournament. On the Chinese side, twelve athletes represented the Chinese Mission to the European Union, the Chinese Embassy in Belgium, and other Chinese institutions based in Brussels. On the European side, twelve athletes were members of the Euroclub, representing EU institutions and organizations. The organizers divided the athletes into six mixed teams of four, ensuring a blend of Chinese and European players to maximize opportunities for exchange and mutual learning. The distinguished guests of the tournament were two veteran figures of Chinese table tennis — Yan Sen and Zhang Yining. Both are associated with the China Table Tennis College and the China Table Tennis Training Centre in Europe (CTTC Europe). Their presence lent the tournament special stature and demonstrated the Chinese side's commitment to sharing experience and technique with European friends. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Chinese Ambassador to the European Union emphasized the practical significance of the event: "Table tennis is not only a sport, but also a bridge linking peoples. The friendship built through every rally today will serve as a solid foundation for comprehensive cooperation between China and Europe in the future." On behalf of the European Table Tennis Union (ETTU), its leadership expressed delight at the positive development of China-Europe friendship in table tennis: "We believe this event will help strengthen friendship, dialogue, and mutual understanding between China and Europe." Table tennis has a long tradition of exchange between Europe and China. Over many decades, encounters at the table between players from both sides have created many lasting sporting and personal relationships. Many legends of both European and Chinese table tennis have grown up through precisely such exchanges. The atmosphere of the tournament was warm and cheerful. Athletes competed in a spirit of exchange and learning, without placing heavy emphasis on winning or losing. Alongside the official matches, the organizers also set aside time for athletes to share experience, exchange techniques, and strengthen mutual understanding. The event closed with a friendly banquet among the participants. Many expressed the wish that the tournament would be maintained and expanded in the years to come, becoming an annual event that further deepens China-Europe friendship in a spirit of understanding, respect, and shared development.