In a gesture of goodwill and international friendship, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a Chinese New Year card on Monday to friends in the U.S. state of Iowa. Reflecting on his fond memories of visiting Iowa 40 years ago, President Xi emphasized the enduring significance of the warm reception he received during his first visit in 1985, which remains fresh in his memory.
President Xi highlighted the extensive common interests shared by China and the United States, underscoring the broad space for cooperation between the two nations. \"China and the United States can achieve mutual success and common prosperity for the benefit of both countries and the world at large,\" he stated, expressing optimism about the potential for partnership and friendship.
The Chinese leader expressed his hope for increased exchanges and visits between the peoples of China and the United States. He called for both nations to \"jointly write new stories of friendship\" and contribute to the development of China-U.S. relations, fostering deeper understanding and collaboration.
The exchange was initiated by 58 Iowan friends, including Luca Berrone, Gary Dvorchak, Sarah Lande; former U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad and his wife; former President of the World Food Prize Foundation Kenneth Quinn; and representatives of teachers, students, and parents from Iowa. These individuals had previously participated in the \"50,000 in Five Years\" initiative, which aimed to invite 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study over a five-year period.
In their New Year card to President Xi, the Iowan friends recalled his visit to Iowa and extended their greetings for the Year of the Snake. The representatives expressed gratitude for the opportunity provided by the exchange initiative, shared their positive experiences of visiting China, and conveyed their eagerness to return.
This heartfelt exchange highlights the importance of people-to-people connections in international relations. As both nations navigate the complexities of global affairs, such gestures of friendship and mutual respect serve as a reminder of the shared values and aspirations that can unite diverse cultures and societies.
Reference(s):
Xi Jinping sends Chinese New Year card in response to friends in Iowa
cgtn.com
