NAIROBI, May 8 (Xinhua) -- The 2026 "Poetry Connects the World" Global Celebration of Classical Chinese Poetry was held on Thursday in the Kenyan capital, bringing together government officials, scholars, artists and students to highlight the role of poetry in promoting cross-cultural dialogue.

Held at the Confucius Institute of the University of Nairobi under the theme "Harmony Between Humanity and Nature," the half-day event featured poetry recitals, choral performances, dance and discussions on the enduring appeal of classical Chinese poetry across generations.

Margaret Jesang Hutchinson, acting vice chancellor of the University of Nairobi, said the event offered an opportunity to deepen cultural understanding between China and Kenya, particularly as 2026 has been designated the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges.

George Okeyo, managing director of the Kenya Literature Bureau, said plans are underway to translate Chinese poems for younger learners as the study of Mandarin gains popularity across the country.

He further said that Chinese literature is now readily available in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions in Kenya.

Wang Shangxue, the Chinese director of the Confucius Institute at the University of Nairobi, said Chinese poets believe that while words may end, their meanings endure, leaving space for readers to reflect and connect emotionally.

Linguist Mercy Kathini said classical Chinese poetry showcases the beauty of silence, restraint, subtlety and symbolism while conveying deep emotions and philosophical insights.

Kathini also noted that Chinese and Kenyan poetic traditions share many common features, including an emphasis on preserving cultural values, historical memory, ancestral wisdom and indigenous knowledge systems.