Sports and cultural exchanges are helping build trust, create opportunities for young people and strengthen long-term partnerships between local governments, according to Guy Redman, head of the department of cultural affairs and sport of South Africa's Western Cape Province.

Speaking to CGTN during the 2026 Shandong International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Exchange Week, Redman highlighted the long-standing cooperation between Shandong Province and the Western Cape, particularly in youth sports exchanges.

He said programs such as the sailing exchange initiative have had a transformative impact on young participants, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, by boosting their confidence, broadening their horizons and providing opportunities that might otherwise be out of reach.

"Sport is very good at breaking down barriers, especially cultural barriers," Redman said, noting that shared experiences in sports help young people overcome language differences, build mutual understanding and develop lasting friendships.

Looking ahead, he expressed hope for expanded cooperation in rugby, table tennis, athletics and cycling, emphasizing that people-to-people exchanges remain an important foundation for deeper collaboration between communities.

Redman also stressed the importance of investing in youth engagement, describing young people as the future of international cooperation and highlighting the role of local partnerships in fostering greater global solidarity and mutual understanding.