Youth forge stronger ties

Dialogue brings together youth leaders from China and Africa to explore modernization, foster cultural exchange, and strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Phelendaba Pearl Chunga, a 32-year-old diplomat at the Zambian Embassy in Beijing, was amazed by the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and well-preserved history during her first visit to Hubei province, where the fourth China-Africa Future Leaders' Dialogue was held.

From Dec 7 to 11, organized by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the event brought together Chinese and African youth leaders in Hubei under the theme "Joining Hands to Advance Modernization".

It aimed to foster cultural exchange, mutual understanding, and win-win cooperation while deepening discussions on modernization.

The five-day journey began in Yichang, located at the boundary between the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze River, where the delegation observed how China has balanced economic development with environmental sustainability through the world's largest water control and hydroelectric project, the Three Gorges Dam.

Lamek Aluvilu Nauta, a 38-year-old Namibian student at the Shanghai National Accounting Institute, was impressed by how the dam effectively leverages the region's large water flow and steep terrain to achieve multiple functions.

He learned that the dam separates two water reservoirs at different elevations. When its gate opens, water flows from the higher reservoir to the lower by the force of gravity, converting hydro-energy into electricity through turbines that supply 10 percent of the country's electricity consumption.

Chunga shared a similar sentiment. "The dam stands as a symbol of technological innovation, renewable energy, and flood control, while also boosting local industries, tourism, and transportation," she said. "This offers valuable lessons for Africa on achieving sustainable economic progress through responsible resource management."

In addition to harnessing its natural resources for economic growth, Hubei is also nurturing emerging industries with a focus on high-tech advancements.