Embrace of cultures still best lesson on understanding

Bridge of trust

Former program director Landman, who was involved with the exchange from the start, said the initiative has succeeded beyond expectations.

"People truly learned about themselves and about others, gained new perspectives and insights, and developed friendships that lasted for decades," she said. "They also passed on the knowledge they gained to generations of students."

Reflecting on the program's broader meaning, Landman quoted one participant's words, which she said captured its essence: "If you ever have a chance to live even briefly inside another culture, take it. You may come away changed, not by the sights or the food or even the friendships alone, but by the recognition that people everywhere, beneath all the layers of history, culture and politics, want many of the same things: safety, purpose, dignity, and connection."

Tian Xuejun, president of the China Education Association for International Exchange, stressed the program's historic role in building mutual understanding. Thirty years ago, the program was the prelude to non-governmental, systematic two-way teacher exchanges between China and the US, he said. It not only provided a platform for teachers to learn from each other, but also built a bridge of trust and sincere friendship at the grassroots level, Tian said.

"These stories fully demonstrate that education is the most direct and lasting way to bring our two peoples closer together," Tian said.

Looking ahead, Tian reaffirmed CEAIE's ongoing commitment to implementing the consensus of the two heads of state, working with friends across sectors to promote openness, inclusiveness, and mutual learning.

Yang Jun, vice-president and secretary-general of the China Education Association for International Exchange, said even though we live in a time that almost everything is reachable online, the trust between people and the warmth of in-person contact cannot be digitized.

Over the past decades, even in challenging times, US China educational exchange has sustained, he said. "The simple act of kindness of Mr Sakolsky 26 years ago has resulted in a lifetime friendship. We hope the seeds we plant today will grow into millions of such relationships," he added.

Shen Xuesong, minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in the US, said that mutual respect, sustained exchanges, and investing in the next generation are key. "Though our cultures and systems differ, people in both countries share kindness, hospitality, and a common aspiration for a better life," she said. "Despite ups and downs in bilateral relations, the friendship between our peoples has never ceased."

She noted that from the teachers who crossed the ocean 30 years ago to the 50,000 American youngsters who have visited China recently, young people in both China and the US are becoming a vital force in promoting China-US friendship. "They experience each other's countries firsthand and gain a true picture of the lives of the people. This most authentic understanding comes from face-to-face exchanges and heart-to-heart communication," she added.