Chinese, German teenagers sing their friendship out

Wuxi Children's Palace Choir and Leverkusen Children's and Youth Choir sing songs jointly. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

The Children's Palace Choir in Wuxi, Jiangsu province, and Leverkusen Children's and Youth Choir in Germany jointly presented a concert at the Forum Leverkusen, the largest concert hall in Leverkusen, Germany, on Oct 4.

The choirs performed the most characteristic songs of their hometowns, inspiring applause and cheers from the audience.

Bemhard Marewski, vice-mayor of Leverkusen, poses for a photo with choir members. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Bemhard Marewski, vice-mayor of Leverkusen, mentioned his deep impression of Wuxi during his visit in 2006 in a speech at the concert. He also welcomed the visit of the Children's Palace Choir in Wuxi.

He emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges, as they promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures and create long-lasting connections across national borders.

Choir members from Wuxi and Germany exchange presents. [Photo provided to wuxi.gov.cn]

Gudrun Koppers, vice-mayor of Boholt, a friendly exchange city of Wuxi, also attended the concert. She revealed her visit to Wuxi next year for further exchanges.

The day before the concert, these choir members exchanged presents with each other, including Huishan clay figurines, Wuxi embroidery, purple clay teapots from Wuxi members, and music CDs from Leverkusen teenagers.

Established sister-city relations in 2005, Wuxi and Leverkusen have since conducted close exchanges and cooperation in economy, trade, education, and culture.