Chinese President Xi Jinping has reached out to old friends in the U.S. state of Iowa, sending a Chinese New Year card that highlights a decades-long friendship and the potential for stronger ties between China and the United States.
In his message, President Xi reflected on his memorable visit to Iowa 40 years ago, expressing that the warm reception he received in the beautiful state remains fresh in his memory. He emphasized that China and the United States share extensive common interests and have broad space for cooperation, suggesting that the two nations can become partners and friends.
\"China and the United States can achieve mutual success and common prosperity for the benefit of both countries and the world at large,\" President Xi stated in his card.
He also conveyed his hope for increased people-to-people exchanges, encouraging more visits and interactions between the citizens of both countries. \"Jointly writing new stories of friendship between our peoples will make new contributions to the development of China-U.S. relations,\" he added.
The President's card was a response to a Chinese New Year greeting sent earlier by 58 individuals from Iowa. Among them were friends such as Luca Berrone, Gary Dvorchak, and Sarah Lande; former U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad and his wife; former President of the World Food Prize Foundation Kenneth Quinn; as well as teachers, students, and parents who participated in the initiative of inviting 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study over a five-year period.
In their card, they reminisced about President Xi's first visit to Iowa in 1985 and extended their best wishes for the Year of the Snake. The representatives from the educational initiative expressed gratitude for the \"50,000 in Five Years\" program, shared their experiences from visiting China, and conveyed their eagerness to visit again.
This exchange of greetings underscores the enduring personal connections that can enhance diplomatic relations. As both nations navigate complex global challenges, such gestures of goodwill and cultural exchange highlight the importance of fostering mutual understanding and friendship.
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Xi Jinping sends Chinese New Year card in response to friends in Iowa
cgtn.com
