On March 24-25, 24 students from Lincoln High School and Steilacoom High School in Washington, the United States, embarked on a journey to Shenzhen to explore an exciting new world. The tour is part of a program dedicated to promoting youth communication and exchanges between the two countries.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, during his trip to the United States in November 2023, announced the program to invite 50,000 American youths to China in the next five years for exchanges and study.
“I'm really excited. This is a really cool experience, and it's a once in a lifetime opportunity. I'm so happy that I took it,” said an US student before the journey started. “I came here with an open mind. The best way to experience China is going to China itself,” another student said.
US students not only visited famous scenic spots in Shenzhen such as Guangdong Neilingding Futian National Nature Reserve, and the “Sky Mirror” at Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarters. They also established friendship with students in Shenzhen Nanshan Foreign Language School through the trip.
“I added a lot of friends on WeChat, so if they want to come to America, I can show them around just like they did,” said US student. US Students started freestyle singing to express their cherish of the friendship between China-US students.
Karl Hoseth, Principal of Lincoln High School Tacoma, Washington expressed his confidence on future exchanges between China and US. He said, “Now with this trip, we're confident that we'll be able to send more and more students and staffs back to China and continue that friendly relationship.”
Richard Muri, Mayor of the Town of Steilacoom, Washington emphasized the promotion on social media. He said, “We're posting everything happened in China on social media that will encourage others to come here also.”
Reporter | Clarice
Video | Wingheng, Clarice
Editor | Zhao Yang, Olivia, Ou Xiaoming, Nan, Will
