Xiong Jingwen, an international student from Singapore who is currently studying at Wuhan University, described her experience of the festival "nothing but joyous".

She recalled the young delegation team's trips from Yichang to Wuhan, during which they traveled the groundbreaking Three Gorges Dam, enjoyed the picturesque scenery looking out from the Yellow Crane Tower and visited a tea manufacturing company and a pharmaceutical factory that uses traditional Chinese herbs.

"I have gained a much deeper understanding of Chinese culture and learned more about China's development in economic, scientific and technological sectors," said Xiong. "I urge everyone here to share what you have seen and learned over the past few days with your friends and family back home. This cultural exchange has been nothing but enriching and fruitful. Many special memories were made that I will hold close to my heart."

The emotions were echoed by Melani from Indonesia, who has been studying at Central China Normal University since 2020. She said she has not only experienced a lot at the event but also noticed the importance of educational exchanges during her past three years studying in China.

"From 2009, the number of international students in China has more than doubled. The latest statistics showed that 15,050 Indonesian students studied in China in 2018," she said. "And the number of students in China from ASEAN member countries is increasing along with bilateral trade. Most students from ASEAN countries return to their own countries and play an active role in promoting mutual understanding and bilateral trade."

One of these students is Lee Wen from Malaysia. As the president of the Association of Malaysia Students in Hubei, she has been working as a bridge of friendship and mutual understanding between youth in both countries by sharing cultures, values and experiences.