The Chinese Ministry of Education, the Chinese Embassy in France, and the Chinese Mission to the European Union jointly launched an initiative on June 21 to expand European youth exchange with China. Chinese Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng, Vice Minister Chen Jie, Chinese Ambassador to France Lu Shaye, former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin, and representatives from various French ministries attended the launch ceremony, alongside over 300 student delegates.
Huai emphasized the importance of the initiative, which was first proposed by President Xi Jinping during his visit to France in May. It aims to send over 10,000 French students to China for study over the next three years, as well as double the number of European youth participating in Sino-European exchange programs. Huai emphasized that this initiative marks a new chapter in Sino-French educational cooperation, building on previous agreements reached between the two countries’ leaders.
“This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, as well as the China–France Year of Culture and Tourism,” Huai said. “As we celebrate this important year, the Chinese Ministry of Education is committed to strengthening youth exchange between China, France and the rest of Europe.” He noted that China supports closer, practical cooperation, including partnerships between universities, joint talent training programs, international summer schools, and the sharing of quality course resources. Additionally, China advocates for comprehensive language and cultural exchange, welcoming more European youth to participate in Chinese education programs, he said.
During the ceremony, Huai spoke with the first group of students participating in the initiative, encouraging them to take advantage of the opportunity to broaden their horizons and form friendships. He urged them to contribute to a future of stronger China–France ties, thus furthering global peace.
Other dignitaries attending the ceremony applauded the launch of the initiative, acknowledging China and France’s pivotal roles as bridges between East and West. They noted the benefits of stronger Sino-French relations, especially in terms of global stability. They emphasized the importance of education in fostering understanding and friendship, and expressed hope that increased exchange would promote world peace and stability.
During the ceremony, representatives from both sides also visited the exhibition entitled “100 years of academic exchanges between China and France & Achievements of Sino-French Cooperation in Education.”