Chongqing welcomes youth delegation from sister cities in Japan
Chongqing - From July 8 to 12, a 30-member youth delegation from Hiroshima and Mito, Japan, visited Chongqing to observe the city's economic and social development and engage in face-to-face exchanges with local youth.
The delegation included university students from Rikkyo University, Seijo University, Sophia University, Hiroshima Bunkyo University, and Hiroshima City University, as well as young professionals from local governments and well-known Japanese enterprises.
From July 8 to 12, a 30-member youth delegation from Hiroshima and Mito, Japan, visited Chongqing to observe the city's economic and social development and engage in face-to-face exchanges with local youth. (Photo/Yue Xingchen)
Since becoming sister cities in 1986, Chongqing and Hiroshima have had frequent exchanges between leaders and citizens, fostering extensive and fruitful cooperation in various fields, including economy, science and technology, education, culture, sports, and healthcare.
In 2000, Chongqing and Mito signed a friendly exchange agreement, leading to regular visits and practical cooperation in sports, youth exchange, culture, and education.
In May 2024, the deputy mayors of Hiroshima and Mito visited Chongqing to attend the Chongqing International Sister Cities Cooperation Conference. They praised Chongqing's unique urban planning and rapid development and agreed to strengthen youth exchanges between the cities.
In less than two months, the delegation from Hiroshima and Mito returned to Chongqing, delving into the city's unique charm. During their visit, the delegation toured the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery and the Chongqing China Three Gorges Museum to understand the city's comprehensive economic and social development plans.
They visited the Inland International Logistics Hub Demonstration Center to learn about the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and toured Seres' Phoenix Smart Factory to see innovations in the new energy vehicle industry. They also visited the site of the Chongqing bombing massacre to learn about the real history of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.
Additionally, the delegation visited Sichuan International Studies University and Chongqing Nankai Secondary School to engage in youth exchanges, fostering mutual understanding and trust. They traveled to Yunyang County's Bayang Town to observe beautiful rural construction and experience traditional Chinese culture by making loquat tea and blue dyeing. The group also visited Ciqikou Ancient Town and Chongqing Zoo, experiencing the city's unique landscape and vibrant energy.
The delegation visited Chongqing Nankai Secondary School to engage in youth exchanges. (Photo/Yue Xingchen)
Nakai Kanon from Hiroshima said, "This is my first visit to China. Despite the historical exchanges between China and Japan, I always felt China was distant. However, through this visit, I was warmly welcomed and gradually fell in love with the country. I now have a new understanding of China, which has a deep cultural heritage based on its rich resources and diverse terrain. Chongqing, in particular, supports both China and the world's development in manufacturing, tourism, and trade. Mutual understanding is crucial for building better international relations. I am honored and benefited greatly from exchanging ideas with students and teachers at Sichuan International Studies University and Nankai Secondary School. Such opportunities for youth are significant, helping us find common ground and appreciate cultural differences, bringing our hearts closer together."
The delegation visited Chongqing Nankai Secondary School to engage in youth exchanges. (Photo/Yue Xingchen)
Nemoto Takaaki from Mito shared their experience, "During our stay in Chongqing, we visited many places and interacted with many people. We learned about the city's historical and economic achievements at the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Gallery. The visit to the Inland International Logistics Hub Demonstration Center deepened our understanding of the strategic importance of the Belt and Road Initiative. I had meaningful exchanges with many Chinese friends who were friendly, understanding, and respectful. I hope China and Japan can continue this mutual respect and learning and that the friendships formed here will last."
