Beijing's sister-city links get Rio boost

Editor's note: Amity between the people holds the key to sound state-to-state relations. China Daily will come out with a series of stories highlighting Chinese cities' special connections with sister cities, mutual understanding, trust and friendship between peoples of different countries and cultural backgrounds, and shining light on "city diplomacy".

Eliandro Libania, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt coach, has found a unique bond with Beijing, where he has lived for the past five years.

"I feel comfortable here. Beijing is my favorite Chinese city," said Libania, who was born in Rio de Janeiro. "I decided to stay because I have great friends and supportive students. I love my job, and it's rewarding to see my students grow and gain confidence."

Libania, who teaches at Nova Uniao Beijing, which draws its name from a well-known martial arts team in Rio de Janeiro, said the key to jiu-jitsu is building confidence. "Like kung fu, it's about respect. Many Brazilians know kung fu, thanks to figures such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan."

Zhang Zhang, a Beijing resident, said he has learned a great deal from Libania. "We see learning and practicing together as a great opportunity to get to know one another better."

In fact, the team feels like a family, said Zhang, now a purple belt Brazilian jiu-jitsu instructor.

"When I first started jiu-jitsu six years ago, it was still niche, but now it has a strong foundation, especially among young people. After practicing jiu-jitsu I've developed a desire to visit Brazil one day to experience its beaches, the ocean, and, of course, the passionate samba dancers," Zhang said. "Beijing and Rio may be far apart, but we're united by shared cultural ties."

Beijing and Rio became sister cities in 1986, and over the years that partnership seems only to have grown stronger.