A Chinese political advisor introduced a proposal advocating for the revival of a traditional Chinese greeting, the fist-and-palm salute, in the post-COVID era, during the fourth session of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

"The coronavirus has forced us to reflect on our existing lifestyles and the ways in which mankind can coexist with nature," Han Fangming, vice chairman of the foreign affairs committee of the CPPCC National Committee and chairman of the Charhar Institute, told China.org.cn. 

Han noted, while common types of greeting such as shaking hands, hugging, or cheek kissing are no longer suitable as they may increase the risk of contracting the virus, societies are turning to new methods like footshakes and elbow bumps instead.

"Etiquette has always been emphasized in traditional Chinese culture, and China is therefore known as the 'state of etiquette,'" Han said. 

"The oldest and most commonly used greeting in history is the fist-and-palm salute. And it's a better way to greet people in the post-pandemic era."

He continued, "This greeting etiquette greatly helps keep social distancing and reduce the spread of the virus."

He suggested relevant government departments conduct research and undertake the promotion of this ancient greeting. "We need to vigorously promote the etiquette across the whole of China, as it demonstrates a profound social significance not only for its role in pandemic prevention but also for the inheritance of a part of ancient Chinese civilization."

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