A student delegation from the US state of Maryland has embarked on their 11-day China tour from April 10 to 20, with Shanghai serving as their first stop. This is part of the '50,000 in 5 Years' program, initiated by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which aims to bring 50,000 young Americans to China on exchange and study programs within five years. Wu Bin tells us more.

A moment when Chinese and American teens connect at first sight. The delegation from the Montgomery County Public Schools—the largest school district in Maryland state in the US—was captivated by the cutting-edge artificial intelligence education at this school in Shanghai. 

SIDDHANT RANJIT JOG, American high school student "This is so cool, I'm crazy that at this age, everyone is doing all these projects."

The Luwan Senior High School began AI education in 2018, and now covers a wide range of AI-related studies such as the soccer robots, quadrupedal robots, as well as the AI game of go. The visiting American students also shared their deep impressions of the VR room, which provides students with a space for mental relaxation at school. 

RYAN JAMES CORKERY, American high school student "I like the emerging room with the VR walls, that is super nice."

Experiencing traditional Chinese handicrafts and cultural performances were among the highlights of the visit. 

CHINESE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT "It's traditional Chinese cultural called paper-cutting. And this means spring in Chinese."

ISABELLA COLLEEN BRANT, American high school student "It was kind of hard to get into the middle. It is hard to get there, but it was fun."

Between cheerful hellos and warm embraces, the Chinese and American teens forged friendships, exchanging gifts as symbols of their growing connection.

HALEY GRACE CORKERY, American high school student "I gave her a pin that says Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen and pickleball, because we'll play pickleball on Sunday with them. I like the pen she gave me. And I will be using it a lot."

ROBIN TRITTIPOE MCCUE, American teacher "Today is our first day, and they are so delighted with the friendliness, kindness and openness of this school."

Through these extraordinary cultural and athletic exchanges, the two countries' students—though separated by vast distances—found their hearts drawing nearer. Wu Bin, CGTN, Shanghai.