Chongqing's cultural ambassadors

As more international students pursue their studies in Chongqing, the southwestern municipality has decided to invite them to tell their stories and help promote mutual understanding among different countries.

On Nov 16, the first group of nine international student correspondents from Chongqing University of Posts and Telecommunications (CQPT) began their roles at a traditional Chinese event held at Chongqing Cotton Mill Yard in Shapingba district.

The student correspondents come from the United States, Russia, India, Vietnam, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. They will write about their time in China and convey their perspectives through various media platforms.

The program is a collaboration between CQPT, the Publicity Department of Shapingba district, and the China Daily Chongqing Bureau.

The event featured a cultural experience centered around the "Start of Winter", the first solar term of the winter season. The students participated in traditional tea ceremonies, learned how to brew tea over a stove, and tried their hand at flower arranging.

Chongqing, a megacity in southwest China with a population of over 32 million, serves as a gateway to inland China and is a major manufacturing hub. It became China's fourth municipality in 1997, after Beijing, Shanghai, and Tianjin.

Spanning an area as large as Austria and five times the size of Beijing, Chongqing has experienced rapid development, transforming into a modern, cosmopolitan city with advanced transportation systems and impressive architecture.

While its futuristic skyline of skyscrapers reflects the city's progress, Chongqing, with its 3,000-year history, also preserves a distinct culture and lifestyle.

Global perspectives

This combination of modernity and tradition makes Chongqing the ideal place for international students to tell their stories about China.

Ly Hoang Anh, a graduate student from Vietnam, is excited to become a correspondent documenting her studies and life in the city.

"Actually, my childhood dream has always been to become a journalist. This is an interesting job that allows me to explore not only the landscapes of China but also its local life. I hope to have a meaningful experience, find happiness, and gain a deeper understanding of China," she said.

Rucker Andrej Tavon from the US is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in computer science and enjoys exploring the city.

"I feel a deep passion about my life here in China, and I'd love to share it with others around the world, especially in my home country," he said.

Garayev Atajan from Turkmenistan said his five years in China have been "a journey of growth, filled with valuable experiences" that have shaped both his academic and personal life.

"[Being a correspondent] allows me to share my perspective as an international student and promote cultural exchange between nations," he said. "I aim to showcase the richness of Chinese culture — its traditions, festivals, and values — and how they connect with people from other cultures."