Chinese ambassador calls on U.S. youths to build up force for bilateral relations

Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng has encouraged young Americans to help build up force for a China-U.S. relationship that is full of vitality and hope.

Xie made the remark on Saturday during an address via video link to the launching ceremony of an exchange and study program between China and the United States.

At the Collegiate Immersion Bootcamp for U.S.-based Institutions to Jiangsu, 90 students and faculty from eight U.S. higher education institutions, including Duke University, Brigham Young University and Columbia University, will take part in a variety of activities in the cities of Suzhou, Wuxi and Nanjing in east China.

Xie said the bootcamp is another important move to deliver on the initiative of inviting 50,000 American youths to China on exchange and study programs over the next five years, which was proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco last November.

"As a follow-up, China has set up the Young Envoys Scholarship program, setting off many exchange programs and sowing the seeds of friendship in the hearts of the young people in both countries," he said.

The Chinese ambassador expressed belief that such programs will contribute to greater mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries.

By learning about Chinese traditional culture such as Kunqu Opera, and visiting science and technology museums, planning exhibition halls and digital centers, as well as canals and night markets during the trip, the U.S. youths can have a first-hand experience of China's innovation drive and feel the happiness of the Chinese people and social tranquility, said Xie.

"I believe by observing the country with your own eyes and measuring its landscapes with your own feet, you will develop some attachment with this country," he said. "All this, I believe, will enable you to tell the true story about China."

"I hope that you will become a powerful source of energy for China-U.S. friendship in the new era," he added.

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