Zhuhai, a vibrant city in southern China, is hosting a landmark cross-strait youth summer camp this week, welcoming young participants from the Taiwan region to explore shared cultural roots and modern innovations. The program forms part of a nationwide initiative attracting over 1,800 participants this year, marking one of the largest youth exchange efforts since its 2004 inception.
Participants will journey through 30 provinces and regions, engaging with the Chinese mainland's rich historical legacy through museum visits and cultural workshops. The itinerary also highlights technological advancements in Shenzhen's innovation hubs and infrastructure developments along the Greater Bay Area, offering practical insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.
"These exchanges help us rediscover our common heritage while building friendships for the future," said one participant from Taipei during a calligraphy session at a Ming Dynasty academy. Organizers emphasize the program's role in fostering mutual understanding through hands-on experiences in urban planning exhibitions and collaborative tech projects.
With over two decades of operation, the initiative has connected more than 30,000 young people across the Taiwan Strait, creating enduring professional networks in fields ranging from renewable energy to digital arts. This year's cohort will conclude their journey in Beijing, where they'll present collaborative proposals addressing sustainable development challenges.
