For 30-year-old Estevan Nicholas Marin Quintero from Colombia, his first visit to China was nothing short of "incredible".

"I've been deeply impressed not just by the country's rich culture and history, but also by how people treated us with such kindness and warmth," he said.

Quintero was one of more than 50 young leaders who participated in the 2025 "Bridge of the Future" China-Latin America and Caribbean Youth Leaders Campus, held from July 18 to 20 in Xi'an, the ancient capital of Shaanxi province.

Hosted by the All-China Youth Federation and organized by the China Youth University of Political Studies (CYUPS) and the Shaanxi Youth Federation, the three-day event offered a vibrant platform for mutual understanding and joint development between the youth of China and the LAC region.

The campus brought together delegates from nine LAC countries and the Ibero-American Youth Organization, alongside young Chinese professionals and scholars.

Through forums, cultural visits, and in-depth discussions, participants not only exchanged ideas and visions but also built new friendships and a strong sense of solidarity.

Zhang Chuanhui, Party secretary of the CYUPS, emphasized youth development as a vital component of national modernization. He encouraged young leaders to become pioneers of peace, development, and cross-cultural exchange.

"Looking to the future, we must fully draw on the existing experience of youth cooperation between China and Latin America, and work together to pursue shared development and revitalization," Zhang said in his opening remarks.

Xu Yongsheng, honorary chairman of the Shaanxi Youth Federation, welcomed the international guests and introduced the region's historical legacy and strategic significance.

"Shaanxi is a key hub in the Belt and Road Initiative, a frontier of China's westward opening-up, and an important transportation corridor," Xu said. "We sincerely invite friends from Latin America and the Caribbean to visit more often, to experience our splendid culture, enjoy our beautiful landscapes, and share in the opportunities brought by Chinese-style modernization."