Young ethnic Chinese children from abroad pose with teachers from the summer camp. [Photo/sxrb.com]

Shanxi province gave a warm welcome to 190 ethnic Chinese children from Italy, Canada, the US, Belgium, and Switzerland in Taiyuan, the provincial capital, on July 11.

The young people were there to participate in the annual Root-seeking Summer Camp which will last for 10 days.

"You are our family members, though you live far away," said Li Gang, director of Shanxi Chinese culture base, during a welcome ceremony for the children.

"Chinese culture is the root of every Chinese person. I hope you can enjoy the summer camp and learn more about Chinese culture," he added.

Local children in Taiyuan demonstrate calligraphy for young ethnic Chinese children from foreign countries. [Photo/sxrb.com]

During the 10 days, the young people will learn traditional Chinese culture, such as paper-cutting, calligraphy, folk dancing and martial arts.

They will also visit famous scenic spots in Shanxi, including three World Heritage Sites –– Wutai Mountain, the Ancient City of Pingyao and Yungang Grottoes.

"I have been looking forward to the summer camp," said a Chinese student from Switzerland who saw the activity as a great opportunity to learn Shanxi culture and make new friends.

The Shanxi Root-seeking Summer Camp, which began in 2012, is hosted by the State Overseas Chinese Affairs Office and its subsidiary departments in Shanxi. It has received more than 600 young Chinese people from 15 countries and regions.