From July 7 to 12, a delegation of 13 Generation Z representatives from Sri Lanka visited Ningxia. The delegation engaged in active exchanges with the local youth representatives, had an in-depth experience of traditional Chinese culture, and gained insights into Ningxia’s development regarding specialty industries, integration of culture and tourism, desertification control, and ecological conservation in the Yellow River basin. The visit not only fostered a deep understanding of both China and Ningxia among the delegation, but also enhanced their perception of Chinese modernization. Furthermore, it strengthened the bonds between the youth and the people-to-people exchanges between China and Sri Lanka.

Under the theme of “Connecting Youths, Strengthening Bonds”, an exchange event brought together outstanding Gen Zers from Ningxia and Sri Lanka, where they immersed themselves in paper cutting and tie-dyeing, both listed as intangible cultural heritages of China. During their interactions, ideas were exchanged on the role Gen Zers can play in advancing the ties between the two countries, and the youth friendship saw an instant growth. There was a consensus that the friendly relations between China and Sri Lanka are time-honored, underpinned by a natural closeness between the peoples. As Gen Zers, they aspire to be the bridges for practical economic and trade cooperation, cultural exchanges, and closer connection between the two peoples and their countries. They are also committed to facilitating high-quality Belt and Road cooperation and reinforcing the strategic cooperative partnership between China and Sri Lanka, featuring sincere mutual assistance and enduring friendship.

With the delegation’s visits to Yuanshi Vineyard, Xizan Goji Berry Plantation, Zhongwei Cloud Exhibition Hall, Zhongwei PV Base in the Tengger Desert, Fuxian Academy, Liu Sanduo Babaocha Technology Company, Shapotou National Nature Reserve, Yellow River Great Canyon Tourist Area and Western Xia Mausoleums, they delved into Ningxia’s endeavors to protect the ecosystem in the areas of the meandering bends of the Yellow River and to coordinate ecological conservation and development in the Yellow River basin. They marveled at the the booming wine industry at the eastern foot of the Helan Mountains, and the innovation-driven goji industry. They also witnessed Ningxia’s advances in applying new development philosophy and promoting high-quality development. The delegation stepped in a tapestry of cultural experiences, including playing Guqin (Chinese zither), donning Hanfu (traditional clothing of the Chinese Han majority), picking goji berries, making straw checkerboards, preparing Babaocha (Eight Treasures Tea), and the movable-type printing of Western Xia characters. These activities elicited ongoing admiration for Ningxia’s efforts in advancing Chinese modernization.

The visit provided the delegation with an opportunity to explore China through Ningxia, during which they witnessed the miracles of China’s development and Chinese modernization, and gained a keen insight into the CPC’s governance philosophy. The delegation were deeply impressed and expressed their willingness to introduce Ningxia’s practices when they go back, thereby boosting Sri Lanka’s economic and social development and nurturing closer ties with China. They also expressed a desire to see more of China, present China to the world, advocate China-Sri Lanka friendship, and implement the Global Civilization Initiative.