Last November, China proposed inviting 50,000 young Americans to its shores over the next five years to improve ties through study and exchange programs.

Over the past year, about 14,000 young Americans have been to China for exchange or study, Chinese Ambassador to the U.S. Xie Feng said at an event promoting China-U.S. youth exchanges held on December 6.

The exchange group is mainly made up of students, including high school students, college students and graduate students. In addition, young entrepreneurs, media professionals, film industry workers, and professionals in fields such as architecture are also included.

Cultural exchanges are a vital means of fostering mutual understanding, dispelling misconceptions, and enhancing comprehension among the younger generations of China and the U.S., laying a strong foundation of public support for the development of bilateral relations.

James Chau, president of the China-U.S. Exchange Foundation, emphasized the power of people-to-people ties in Sino-U.S. relations, in his article published on the website of Center for International Relations and Sustainable Development, a public policy think-tank. He said student and scholar exchanges are one of the most vital forms of people-to-people connection as they shape the next generation of leaders.

Short-term programs spark curiosity, break down stereotypes and give students "a stepping stone" towards considering deeper academic or professional engagement with China, AmCham China President Michael Hart said.

As the "50,000 people in five years" initiative continues to be implemented over the next few years, it is expected that a new wave of Sino-U.S. youth exchanges will emerge, fostering greater collaboration and mutual understanding between the two countries. These young participants will serve as bridges connecting the two nations. Moreover, stable bilateral relations and growing people-to-people exchanges between China and the U.S. will inject vitality and confidence for international community.

In his speech, Xie said good news keeps coming to help with promoting exchanges, citing the number of direct flights between the two countries increasing to 100 per week.

People-to-people exchanges are a necessity. They represent our commitment to understanding and collaboration, bridging divides that politics alone cannot, Chau said. "By nurturing these relationships, we create a foundation for stronger and more compassionate international ties, ensuring that dialogue and collaboration flourish even in the face of global challenges."