Xi Jinping and his four-decade bond with Iowan friends

"For America and China to be friends as countries, it is important for people to understand each other," he said.

THE YOUTH AND TOMORROW

For the Chinese leader, the future of China-US relations depends on the youth. For years, Xi has worked to foster friendly exchanges between young people in China and the United States.

During his 2023 visit to San Francisco, Xi announced an initiative to invite 50,000 young Americans to China for exchange and study programs over a five-year span.

Shortly after, Lande, who maintained correspondence with Xi, wrote to him, expressing hope that Muscatine High School students could join the program.

With Xi's support, over 20 Muscatine students visited Beijing, Shanghai, Hebei and other places in China in January 2024, becoming the first group of American students to participate in the program.

After their visit, the students, delighted by their experiences, wrote a letter to Xi. In a reply, Xi told them he felt happy for them. He encouraged more young Americans to visit China to get a first-hand experience of the real China and foster genuine friendships with their Chinese counterparts.