Chinese President Xi Jinping has sent a Chinese New Year card to friends in the U.S. state of Iowa, expressing his warm regards and emphasizing the importance of friendship and cooperation between China and the United States.
In his message, President Xi reminisced about his visit to the picturesque state of Iowa 40 years ago, recalling the warm reception he received. \"The memories of my time in Iowa remain fresh in my mind,\" he wrote. \"China and the United States share extensive common interests and broad space for cooperation. We can become partners and friends.\"
President Xi highlighted the potential for mutual success and prosperity between the two nations, noting that strengthened ties would benefit not only China and the United States but also the world at large. He expressed hope that people from both countries would engage in more exchanges and visits, fostering deeper understanding and friendship.
The gesture from President Xi was in response to a Chinese New Year card sent by 58 individuals from Iowa. The group included 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 involved in an initiative encouraging 50,000 young Americans to study and exchange in China over a five-year period.
In their card, the Iowa friends reflected on President Xi's first visit to the state in 1985 and extended their New Year greetings for the Year of the Snake. The teachers, students, and parents expressed gratitude for the \"50,000 in Five Years\" initiative, shared their experiences from visiting China, and conveyed their eagerness to return.
President Xi's message underscores the enduring significance of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening international relations. His call for increased interaction between the Chinese and American peoples aims to build bridges and contribute to the development of China-U.S. relations.
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Xi Jinping sends Chinese New Year card in response to friends in Iowa
cgtn.com
