Reflections on two events celebrating the founding of the PRC

The 77th Anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China was on Oct 1, 2026. A very important moment across China, recognized and celebrated worldwide, particularly among the Chinese diaspora. For me, having just returned from Beijing, it was a pleasure and indeed a delight to attend two vibrant events in Edinburgh, Scotland's historic capital.

Meeting so many people from across China created a feeling of being back in the country, and I even tried to communicate in Putonghua! I always feel it is appreciated, particularly in China, when I try speaking the native language. Some guests, of course, spoke Cantonese, which is widely heard in Scotland. This also reflects the diversity of China's large population.

On Sept 29, Edinburgh's San Chuan Restaurant hosted an excellent evening of music, speeches and fine Chinese cuisine, amid a strong feeling of friendship. Thanks go to Edward Tsang, chairman of the Association of Chinese Entrepreneurs in Scotland, for organizing this well-attended evening and, of course, for inviting me.`

In keeping with the significance of the occasion, China's national anthem was played. It was also a moment to reflect on the country's development over the years and its major role in the world today. Consul General of China in Scotland, Zhang Biao, spoke passionately, welcoming the assembled group and commenting on China's contemporary position and steady progress over time.

In attendance were several dignitaries from countries represented in Edinburgh, along with leaders from the city and other parts of Scotland. They included Lezley Marion Cameron Depute Lord Provost of Edinburgh; Turkish Consul General Ambassador Hakan Serhat Gok and Aga Sahin Firat, founder of Turkish-Scottish Chamber of Commerce. Also in attendance was Depute Provost of East Ayrshire John McGee and many more from across Scotland and, of course, China.

I really felt I was back in Beijing, a city that has been a major part of my life and a passion going back almost 40 years. At my table there were several Chinese ladies, including one from my former neighborhood, Beijing's Chaoyang district. Another came from Hebei province and one from Hong Kong.  It was a chance to share memories of many really happy times travelling throughout China.

A truly talented girl gently played a traditional Chinese musical instrument, the guzheng.  With a history of over 2500 years, it delivered a wonderfully expressive tone. For such celebrations, there were superb lion dance performances. Listening to that inspiring music in particular, I could almost feel I was back in China, surrounded by sounds I had been so familiar with.

Appreciating the fine cuisine produced by this restaurant in Edinburgh's university district, I thought of how Chinese catering has really changed. Much of this is due to the growing, indeed large numbers of Chinese students presently in cities such as Edinburgh and Glasgow. In earlier years, the menus available in Scotland were often a form of westernized dishes. Today, it is possible to try a range of authentic regional cuisines, such as Sichuan delicacies and my personal favorite, hotpot! At such dinners, it is also important to remember Chinese table manners, which can be quite different from those in Britain.

It had been a very pleasant, indeed memorable evening on which I reflected while later walking through the historic streets of Edinburgh. I was, however, also looking forward to another gala event in Edinburgh.

The following evening, on Sept 29, a superb reception to commemorate the 77th anniversary was held at Edinburgh's prestigious Sheraton Grand Hotel.  This was organized by the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Edinburgh.

Again, I was thrilled to be there, listening to speeches and enjoying traditional performances from across China. Consul General Zhang Biao welcomed everyone before talking passionately about China today, what the country has achieved and its positive relationship with Scotland. Edinburgh's Depute Lord Provost Lezley Cameron followed with a delightful talk about the evening and the city's friendship with China. Indeed the relationship between Scotland and China today reflects a growing momentum between both countries. Such events, as have been held in Edinburgh during this 77th anniversary, show that such friendly cooperation will surely continue.

When I look at China today, seeing the progress and achievements the country has made, I am often reminded of my almost 40 years involved with China. Travelling all those years ago across the country, photographing and documenting a land often in its early stages of development. Today, in contrast, I am capturing images of a very modern, vibrant society. I thought much about this as I stood there reminiscing during the anniversary reception commemorating 77 years of the PRC.

The evening finished with spectacular, vivid performances of traditional Chinese dance illustrating both the diversity of the country's dynastic history and the ethnic diversity across such a vast land. Some displays even reminded me of similar events I had attended in China's earlier historic capital Xi'an of Shaanxi province.

There have been, in recent years, a series of events in Edinburgh and other parts of Scotland reflecting on significant dates and events in China, the annual Spring Festival being one example. Such moments allow people, particularly those who have never been to China, to appreciate, in some ways, the country's traditions, culture and diversity.

I was really glad to have attended both evenings in Edinburgh. For this, I owe special thanks to the consulate-general of China in Edinburgh, and of course, Edward Tsang, who has invited me to several excellent performances and special occasions.

Such moments help to keep me close to China.

Bruce Connolly is a photographer and writer from Scotland who has lived in China for over 30 years.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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