Over 150 years ago, the coastal city of Fuzhou in southeast China’s Fujian Province emerged as a beacon of maritime innovation and international collaboration. It was here that China embarked on one of its first major endeavors to learn advanced Western technology in shipbuilding and navigation, marking the birthplace of the nation’s first modern shipyard.
The bond between China and France is deeply etched into the history of Fuzhou. French naval officer Prosper Marie Giquel played a pivotal role in the 1860s, fostering cooperation with his Chinese counterparts. His efforts were instrumental in establishing not only a state-of-the-art shipyard but also the Chuanzheng School, China’s first naval academy, which laid the groundwork for modern maritime education in the country.
“I was impressed to see the struggle China had gone through to achieve modernization, as well as the international cooperation and exchange, especially between China and France that existed more than 150 years ago,” said Fu Lixin, a local resident who reflects the pride of Fuzhou’s community in their city’s rich heritage.
Many of the original shipyard buildings, designed by French engineers and constructed in 1867, stand to this day as enduring symbols of this cross-cultural collaboration. These historic structures not only represent architectural achievements but also embody the enduring friendship and mutual respect between the two nations.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has long recognized the significance of Fuzhou’s shipbuilding legacy. Serving as deputy party chief of Fujian Province from 1995 to 2002, Xi emphasized the importance of preserving cultural heritage. “In 1997, Fuzhou planned to build an avenue along the river. The plan was to cut through the old shipyard. When Comrade Xi Jinping learned about it, he suggested that an overpass be built instead, so we can develop the area without destroying the site,” recalled Xie Zuomin, former general manager of Fujian Shipbuilding Industry Group.
This commitment to preservation ensures that Fuzhou’s historic shipyards continue to tell the story of China and France’s shared journey towards modernization. The city remains a living museum where past meets present, and where the foundations of international friendship are celebrated and maintained for future generations.
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Century-old shipbuilding history testament to China-France friendship
cgtn.com
