Over 20 students from Muscatine High School in Iowa have expressed their gratitude to Chinese President Xi Jinping following an enriching cultural exchange visit to China in January. The students shared their heartfelt appreciation with China Media Group (CMG) on Monday, February 26.
The trip was part of a new initiative announced by President Xi during his November 2023 visit to the United States, where he unveiled a plan to welcome 50,000 American youths to China for exchange and study over the next five years. The Muscatine High School students were the first group to participate in this ambitious program.
Sarah Lande, a long-time friend of President Xi in Iowa, had previously expressed her hope that students from Muscatine could be among the participants in the exchange. Her wish was realized with the personal support of President Xi, allowing the students to embark on a journey that fostered mutual understanding and cultural connection.
The students’ visit included tours of historical sites, schools, and communities in China, providing them with firsthand experiences of Chinese culture and society. Their expressions of gratitude highlight the importance of people-to-people exchanges in strengthening ties between nations.
“Our time in China was life-changing,” said one student. “We are grateful for President Xi’s generosity and the opportunity to learn more about China. This experience has opened our eyes to new perspectives and possibilities.”
The program aims to promote friendship and understanding between Chinese and American youths, fostering a foundation for future cooperation and shared growth.
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Muscatine High School students show gratitude to Chinese President
cgtn.com
