Chinese language strengthens Sino-Saudi ties

Learning Chinese is becoming a key bridge between China and Saudi Arabia, fostering cultural exchange and economic cooperation. Shahad Alsalahi, a Saudi university student, recently honoured as a "Chinese Language Star", shared how studying the language deepened her appreciation for shared values and traditions. Her visit to China, including landmarks like the Great Wall, left a lasting impression and inspired her to pursue a China-related career.

King Saud University, the first in the country to offer a Chinese major, now has around 300 students enrolled. A university official highlighted that introducing Chinese into Saudi Arabia’s national education system aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 goals, promoting cultural diversity and enhancing job opportunities for youth.

China and Saudi Arabia are each other’s top trading partners, with growing cooperation under China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, as reported by China Daily, a partner of TV BRICS.

Last year, Saudi Arabia welcomed its first group of Chinese teachers as part of a push to introduce Mandarin in schools. Officials plan to expand the programme by hiring hundreds more instructors, responding to rising demand for Chinese language skills in the job market. Professionals note that fluency in Chinese can boost salaries by 20-30 per cent, making it a valuable career asset.

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