Martial arts stand as a quintessential representation of traditional Chinese sports, bearing a profound history and rich cultural heritage. According to the latest "Overseas Perception of Chinese Discourse Survey" released by the National Translation and Compilation Bureau, cultural terms related to Chinese kung fu rank highest in recognition, demonstrating its unique role as a "cultural emblem."

A recent survey conducted in six major regions along the "Belt and Road" initiative and seven countries examined the perception of martial arts culture, revealing the extent of its recognition in these regions.

China's millennium-old tradition of martial arts has spread beyond its borders through the Chinese diaspora. During the 1960s and 1970s, Bruce Lee's films popularized the term "kung fu" globally, while the broadcasting of the movie "Shaolin Temple" sparked a global enthusiasm for martial arts. This influence endures, and in the eyes of people along the "Belt and Road" countries, "kung fu" remains the synonymous term for martial arts. The power of cultural dissemination determines its influence. Coupled with the robust influence of media, the enhancement of national "hard power" and the elevation of "soft power," martial arts, as a cultural symbol and carrier of communication, has been gradually gaining more prominence. Over half of the surveyed individuals expressed their fondness for martial arts.

In the survey, 75.5% of respondents expressed their willingness to learn and understand martial arts. This suggests that against the backdrop of building a community with a shared future for humanity, especially in the current context of a persistent global pandemic, martial arts' overseas communication should emphasize its inherent philosophy of "harmony" and its value in nurturing both body and mind. This will deepen the audience's understanding and experience of martial arts on a profound level.

Furthermore, over 74% of respondents strongly or somewhat agreed that "cultural exchanges through sports are an essential part of the 'Belt and Road' initiative." In today's world of multipolarity, the dissemination of cultural soft power is receiving increasing attention. Chinese martial arts, which emphasize the fusion of movement and stillness, strength and flexibility, and the connection between the mind and body, embody the philosophy of Eastern culture through physical activity. It serves as an excellent vehicle for telling China's story.

To effectively convey the essence of Chinese martial arts, accurate positioning and comprehensive shaping of its cultural image are fundamental. Across martial arts' long evolution, it has developed a profound cultural system. We need to package martial arts' cultural image comprehensively, from its ritual etiquette, clothing, and technical systems to its value, function, and cultural connotation. This will create a clear expression that resonates with overseas audiences and ensures their delight, understanding, and enjoyment.

The expression of China's story through martial arts not only requires geographical expansion and spatial coverage but also underscores the full demonstration of the influence of Chinese martial arts. In this regard, promoting the deep internationalization of martial arts serves as a crucial channel for telling this story effectively.

To tell China's story through martial arts, a substantial number of international martial arts talents with cross-cultural awareness and cross-cultural communication abilities are needed. They are the narrators of China's story and the talents that guarantee its effective delivery. In the short term, understanding the needs of various countries' martial arts associations and private martial arts organizations through the International Wushu Federation could guide efforts to enhance the internationalization capabilities of martial arts teachers and students, leading to targeted output. Additionally, strengthening and leveraging overseas institutions and platforms established by Chinese companies could help increase relevant martial arts training programs, attracting domestic martial arts talents to "go global."

From the fluttering sails and ringing camel bells along the ancient "Silk Road" to the cooperative spirit of "Belt and Road," what fades is time, while China's sentiment remains unchanged. The implementation of the "Belt and Road" initiative is driving global economic prosperity and serving as a platform for showcasing the world's diverse cultures. Martial arts carry the profound essence of Chinese culture and represent a silent language for telling China's story. Given the deep-seated "kung fu" cultural image entrenched in the hearts of people along the "Belt and Road" countries and the widespread recognition of the fitness and wellness values embedded in martial arts, the expansion of China's "circle of friends" along the "Belt and Road" initiative creates a favorable climate for further packaging the martial arts culture and promoting its deep international dissemination. The time is ripe for these efforts.