China-Serbia Youth International Cultural Exchange Program Ends!

Chinese President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Serbia in May, 2024. During the visit, the Chinese side proposed a plan to invite 300 Serbian youth to China for study and exchange over the next three years, further solidifying the foundation of China-Serbia friendship. The Zhejiang Entrepreneurs Association of China in Serbia and Minth Group have actively responded to the consensus reached by the leaders of both countries, and invited 100 Serbian youth to visit China from August 8 to 17, 2024, where they engaged in exchanges with Chinese youth representatives. Together, they fostered friendships and contributed youthful energy to the enduring friendship between China and Serbia.

During the China-Serbia Youth Exchange Program, the young people from both nations built a bridge of understanding through various forms of exchange activities. From being initially shy to eventually forming a close friendship. They shared their personal experiences, cultural backgrounds, and dreams. In sessions such as "Face-to-Face with Industry Leaders" and "High-Level Dialogue," the youth engaged in deep discussions with experts, gaining insights into more career development opportunities and platforms. They also experienced firsthand the efficient operation of China's automated equipment and the vibrant growth driven by innovation in the economy.

Against the backdrop of "Go with the Olympics," a basketball friendship game was organized between Chinese and Serbian youth during the exchange program. The game not only showcased the youth's commitment to sportsmanship but also fostered trust among the Serbian participants while further enhancing mutual respect and cooperation between both sides. During the "China-Serbia Exchange Night" with Minth Group's Global Management Trainees, the youth formed mixed teams and, through cultural sharing and interactive discussions, delivered an unforgettable cultural integration evening, deepening their understanding and appreciation of each other's cultures.

In addition to its commitment to becoming a global leader in automotive components, Minth has consistently pursued a path of philanthropy. During this event, the Serbian youth not only listened to the touching stories of the "Hope for Pearl" program but also engaged in face-to-face exchanges with the Pearl students, sharing their dreams and experiences, and connecting on a deeper, emotional level. Through this cross-border interaction, this great love transcends mountains and seas, spreading warmth to every corner of the world.

In a relaxed and joyful atmosphere, both sides participated in a food exchange and tasting, where every bite carried a sense of respect and curiosity for each other's culture, turning taste buds into ambassadors of cultural connection. Following this, they exchanged traditional dances, with music and movement elevating the emotions in the room to a peak, transcending language barriers.

What was even more touching was when everyone joined hands to create paintings filled with creativity and warmth. Each stroke reflected their aspirations for a better life and their passion for philanthropy. These artworks are not just the fruits of artistic expression, but also a testament to the friendship and love shared between the youth of China and Serbia.

During the part of Hometime, Chinese families opened their arms to the Serbian youth, allowing them to experience the warmth and care of a home-like environment. Whether it was the joyful laughter during family meals or the attentive care during their brief stay, the Serbian youth deeply felt the humanistic concern of Chinese families. This kind of care not only deepened the friendship between the youth of China and Serbia but also showcased the traditional virtues of hospitality and harmonious coexistence of the Chinese people.

During the exchange activities, the Serbian youth visited several cities in China and experienced the charm and allure of Chinese urban life.

From exploring the mysteries of the ocean at the National Maritime Museum of China in Tianjin to experiencing how China's high-speed rail contributes to economic development; from the pioneering spirit of courage and innovation at the South Lake Revolutionary Memorial Hall in Jiaxing to the serene beauty of the time-honored Jiangnan water town in Wuzhen; the Ningbo trip showcased the vibrant modern economic development of a port city, the intangible cultural heritage at the Children's Library, the profound 7,000-year history at the museum, and the urban sophistication of Tianyi Square. Shanghai showcased the perfect blend of technology and fashion, with the vibrant Bund and the dazzling Huangpu River cruise; and finally, the visit to Hangzhou concluded with the academic exploration at Zhejiang University and the poetic beauty of West Lake.

As showcased in the creative concept of the poster designed by Dušan Savić from Group Six for the Cruise Party Night in Shanghai: the Huangpu River in Shanghai symbolically converges with the Danube River flowing through Belgrade before our eyes. The meeting of these two rivers represents not only a connection across time and space but also vividly reflects the collision and fusion of two cultures during this journey.

With this,【Building Dreams Together, China-Serbia Cooperation】China-Serbia Youth International Cultural Exchange Program has successfully concluded. During the camp, many youth representatives from both China and Serbia expressed their profound reflections on this experience. Here are some of their thoughts shared during interviews:

This China-Serbia Youth International Cultural Exchange Program was like a cruise ship carrying diverse cultures. Over the 10-day journey, Serbian youth not only explored the various characteristics and rich history of several Chinese cities but also experienced China's humanistic care and social warmth through their participation in charitable activities and family experiences. At the same time, they actively contributed ideas and efforts in different activities. These experiences not only allowed them to appreciate China's unique cultural charm but also deepened their understanding of Chinese society through interaction and exchange, establishing a deep friendship that transcends borders.

Similarly, the Chinese youth representatives who participated in the exchange program were also deeply moved. They experienced the process of moving from initial unfamiliarity and cultural differences to mutual understanding and trust with the Serbian youth. Behind different living habits, ways of thinking, and cultural backgrounds lie similar emotions and human nature. Just as the convergence of the two cultures is distinctive yet rooted in shared values such as the importance of family, the appreciation of friendship, and a common hope for the future. Through repeated exchanges and interactions, they gradually peeled away the surface layers of culture, revealing each other's unique beauty and finding deeper cultural understanding and resonance.