Eighty-five French students received short-term training in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and immersed in Chinese culture in southwest China's Chengdu, as part of people-to-people exchanges between the two countries as they celebrate their 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.

During their tour, which started July 10 till July 28, the TCM enthusiasts studied acupuncture, massage and other therapies and treatments.
"You know, it's just the first step. I think I need to learn a lot before being a good doctor," said Nicolas Deleurence, one of the French TCM students.
The tour was organized by Ma Fan, a Sichuan native and alumna of Chengdu TCM College. Ma, who is currently the president of Shaoyang International Institute of TCM, moved to France 30 years ago and did her fair share to promote what’s known as "the Asian magic" in Europe, with little recognition to begin with.
"It's much better than 20 or 30 years ago. For instance, when you mention TCM, people know it. It's hard to believe that so many French people know TCM or acupuncture terms. For example, when our students begin classes, we gradually teach them, starting from Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, the Book of Changes, and meridians. We integrate it with the entire Chinese culture. So, if you come to learn TCM, you will naturally fall in love with Chinese culture, Chinese lifestyle and China," she said.
In addition to studying TCM, the French students also interacted with the local community during their stay, which, they said, has deepened their understanding about the country and its culture.
"It's amazing. I love it. I love to discover Chinese culture," said Marine Ducotterd, a French TCM student.
"So many different things. We have been so well welcomed by all the people," said Julien Thierree, a French TCM student
"I didn't know anything about Chinese culture before. And now I learn Chinese culture with TCM," said Marie Chosson, another French TCM student.