DEEPENING PEOPLE-TO-PEOPLE BONDS

Friendship, which comes from close contact between people, holds the key to sound state-to-state relations. Promoting people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding stands as another highlight of China's head of state diplomacy at the beginning of 2026.

When exchanging New Year greetings with Putin, Xi announced that 2026-2027 will be designated as the China-Russia Years of Education.

During his talks with Lee, Xi called on both sides to increase personnel exchanges and promote interactions in areas such as youth, media, sports, think tanks and local governments.

In his meeting with Martin, Xi extended a warm welcome for more Irish youth to come to China for study and exchanges.

Responding to a letter from a US youth education exchange delegation comprised of teachers and students, Xi said he looks forward to more American youth joining the cause of China-US friendship, becoming a new generation of envoys of friendship between the two countries, and making greater contributions to enhancing people-to-people exchanges and promoting the development of bilateral relations.

Xi's diplomatic style has showcased to the world the distinct traits of China's foreign policy -- treating all nations as equals and upholding a long-term vision -- and embodied the grandeur of Chinese civilization that is inclusive and embraces the diversity of all cultures.

In today's context, the broad-mindedness to replace civilizational estrangement and clashes with exchanges and mutual learning is particularly precious.