As the world grapples with rapid globalization and shifting political landscapes, international youth perspectives on the Communist Party of China (CPC) offer helpful insights. Recently, a diverse group of young individuals from different countries visited Xi'an and Yan'an in Shaanxi Province, northwest China, engaging with local culture, historical heritage and contemporary policies. Yan'an is a former revolutionary base that hosted the headquarters of the CPC Central Committee from 1935 to 1948.

During their exploration, the students and professionals highlighted the CPC's role in China's modernization and development. The youth delegation's visit to a terminal of the China-Europe freight train service in Xi'an provided a firsthand look at the Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by China to boost connectivity along and beyond the ancient Silk Road routes. Pedro Steenhagen, a Brazilian doctoral student at Shanghai's Fudan University, commented on the internationalization of Chinese cities: "These locations serve as windows to understand the connection between Chinese cities and the Belt and Road Initiative. The openness of local administrations is key for international relations."

The delegation learned about cultural heritage protection at the Emperor Qinshihuang's Mausoleum Site Museum, which is home to the world-renowned Terracotta Army of China's first emperor who ruled from 247 to 210 B.C. In Yan'an, the group visited historic sites such as the Yan'an Revolutionary Museum. In Liangjiahe, a village where President Xi Jinping worked and lived from 1969 to 1975, visitors learned about the arduous struggles Chinese leaders faced in the past.

Cultural exchange emerged as a central theme during discussions among the youth. During the "Night on Pagoda Hill" gathering, participants discussed topics such as heritage and innovation of traditional Chinese culture and technological innovation in rural revitalization, further strengthening ties between different civilizations.

The event in Shaanxi demonstrated the CPC's commitment to inclusive development and cultural promotion, leaving a lasting impression on the young participants. The participation of Brazilians, including Steenhagen and myself, is particularly relevant this year, as we celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between China and Brazil. This presence not only strengthens cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations but also provides a platform for knowledge and experience exchange, contributing to a deeper understanding of contemporary China.

Moreover, it symbolizes the continuity and strengthening of the diplomatic cooperation established half a century ago. Participating in these events gave us firsthand insights into Chinese policies, culture and innovations, fostering a more productive and comprehensive dialogue between our two nations.

As international youth engage with the CPC's initiatives and philosophies, they contribute to a broader narrative that challenges stereotypes and promotes collaborative dialogue. By sharing their experiences and insights, they play a major role in shaping a future where cooperation and mutual respect guide international relations.

Through this initiative, I believe we can bring a more nuanced understanding of China to Brazil, helping build more accurate and balanced narratives. This is essential for combating stereotypes and promoting fairer and more effective cooperation in future economic and political partnerships.

Celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations offers an opportunity to reflect on past achievements and plan for future collaborations. Brazilian involvement in this event underlines our ongoing commitment to strengthening these ties and our intent to explore new avenues of cooperation. We not only celebrate five decades of diplomatic relations but also participate in paving the way for even closer and more fruitful collaboration between China and Brazil in the years to come.

The author is an editorial consultant for China Hoje, a Portuguese digital quarterly magazine 

Copyedited by Elsbeth van Paridon 

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