In a significant step towards strengthening China-U.S. relations, Chinese Ambassador to the United States, Xie Feng, announced on Friday that approximately 14,000 young Americans have visited China over the past year for exchange and study programs. This initiative is part of China's pledge to invite 50,000 American youths to China within the next five years.
Speaking at an event promoting China-U.S. youth exchanges at the Chinese embassy in Washington, Ambassador Xie highlighted the success of the program. "In November last year, President Xi Jinping announced in San Francisco that China is ready to invite 50,000 young Americans to China on exchange and study programs in the next five years," he said. "To implement the initiative, China has set up a YES program – the Young Envoys Scholarship. Over the past year, President Xi invited American youths to visit China on multiple occasions, which was warmly received here in the States."
Ambassador Xie emphasized the impact of these exchanges on fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the two nations. He remarked that the initiative "has provided an effective platform that brings our youths closer, opened up an important window for better understanding China, and ushered in a new chapter of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples."
Building Bridges Amid Challenges
Despite facing "some headwinds in the past few years," Ambassador Xie expressed optimism about the future of people-to-people exchanges. "Good news keeps coming with joint efforts," he stated, acknowledging the challenges but encouraging continued collaboration.
He urged for perseverance in the face of obstacles, noting that "much remains to be done to continue removing disruptions, stay undaunted by the chilling effect, oppose any backpedaling, and move forward hand in hand, to build more bridges for people-to-people exchanges and inject constant impetus into China-U.S. relations."
Youth as Ambassadors of the Future
The ambassador called upon the youth of both countries to "take up the baton of history" and shoulder the responsibility of fostering a stable, sound, and sustainable China-U.S. relationship. "Our youths hold the key to the future of our bilateral relations," he asserted.
The event was attended by over 300 guests, including educators, students who participated in the exchange programs, and friends of both nations from various walks of life. Two panel discussions were held, during which participants shared their experiences and expressed their hopes for continued educational exchange and cooperation.
Panelists underscored the importance of these programs in promoting cultural understanding and cooperation that benefits not only China and the United States but also the broader global community.
Looking Ahead
As China continues to welcome young Americans, the exchange programs are expected to further enhance mutual understanding and collaboration between the two countries. The Young Envoys Scholarship (YES) program represents a significant commitment to international education and cultural exchange.
The ambassador's remarks highlight a shared vision for stronger ties through youth engagement, signaling a positive direction for China-U.S. relations in the coming years.
Reference(s):
Ambassador Xie: About 14,000 young Americans visited China in 2024
cgtn.com
