Participants in the recently concluded Central Asia Youth Friendship Camp in the Ningxia Hui autonomous region expressed appreciation for the cultural experience and the meaningful connections they made during the event. Many highlighted how the program enriched their understanding of Chinese culture and strengthened ties between China and Central Asia.

The four-day camp was part of an effort by the China-Central Asia Cooperation Forum to bring together youth representatives from both regions with international students and provincial and ministerial officials in China. It was the 11th installment of the camp.

Attendees engaged in diverse activities, including traditional performances and visits to significant cultural landmarks. One visit, to North Minzu University in Yinchuan, highlighted China's long history of ethnic integration.

Central Asian participants eager to learn about China's culture, history and development, valued the opportunity and voiced their commitment to fostering friendly exchanges and cooperation.

"This event deepened my understanding of Chinese culture and the development of Central Asian international students. I'm eager to share my experience to help new Central Asian students adapt to life in China," said Rohman Bayramdurdyyev, a 30-year-old representative from Turkmenistan who has spent many years in China.

Wang Aijing, a student from Turkmenistan attending Ningxia University, emphasized how her long-standing interest in Chinese culture motivated her and her sister to study in China. "The welcoming environment and rich culture made us feel at home," she said.

Another student, Ma Yue of Tajikistan, said, "I want to become an international journalist and share stories that bridge understanding between our nations."

Guo Yanqi in Beijing and Chen Xinyi in Yinchuan contributed to this story.