The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit, held last September, solidified the burgeoning partnership between China and Africa, ushering in a new era of collaborative modernization. Central to this renewed commitment was the announcement of ten partnership actions, including the Partnership Action for People-to-People Exchanges. This initiative prioritizes collaboration in education, youth development, women’s empowerment, and cultural engagement, culminating in the designation of 2026 as the China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges. This symbolic gesture underscores China’s intent to foster deeper human connections, particularly through educational and cultural exchange programs. The summit further cemented the strengthening ties between China and Liberia, with the two nations elevating their relationship to a strategic partnership, promising enhanced cooperation across various sectors.
This strategic partnership, emphasizing the importance of people-to-people connections, is expected to facilitate greater educational opportunities for Liberian students in China. Chinese Ambassador to Liberia, Yin Chengwu, stressed the importance of these exchanges, encouraging Liberian students to become ambassadors of friendship and contribute to the growing China-Liberia and China-Africa relationship. He emphasized the critical role of language acquisition, highlighting the Chinese language as a bridge for mutual understanding and a driver of cooperative growth. This sentiment echoes President Xi Jinping’s belief in the vital role of strong interpersonal relationships in fostering robust state-to-state relations.
Ambassador Chengwu’s comments came during the 24th Chinese Bridge – Chinese Proficiency Competition for Foreign College Students, held at the University of Liberia. This event, a testament to the growing cultural and educational ties between the two nations, saw Jusu Nennee Dawolo emerge as the grand winner, earning a scholarship to further their studies in China. The competition, attended by university officials, representatives from Chinese companies, and other dignitaries, showcased the increasing interest in Chinese language and culture among Liberian students. The event served as a platform to celebrate not only language proficiency but also the strengthening bonds of friendship and cooperation between China and Liberia.
Beyond its functional use in communication, Ambassador Chengwu emphasized the Chinese language’s significance as a vehicle for understanding China’s rich cultural and historical heritage. He noted the growing global interest in learning Chinese, viewing it as a positive trend that promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation for the principles of harmony and self-improvement embedded in Chinese civilization. He encouraged leveraging the language as a cultural bridge to further strengthen mutual understanding and build a stronger, more resilient China-Africa community with a shared future.
Dr. Layli Maparyan, President of the University of Liberia, echoed these sentiments, describing the competition as a significant cultural and linguistic milestone. She celebrated the power of international exchange, emphasizing that the Chinese Bridge Competition transcends mere language proficiency; it serves as a tangible link connecting people, cultures, and aspirations. Dr. Maparyan expressed pride in the university’s strong partnership with the Chinese government and its institutions, attributing the establishment of the Confucius Institute at UL to the expansion of Chinese language learning and cultural exploration opportunities for Liberians. She emphasized the shared belief in education as a foundation for mutual respect and global citizenship.
Dr. Maparyan addressed the student competitors directly, acknowledging their role as ambassadors of Liberia. Their interest in Chinese language and culture signifies their global perspective and preparedness to contribute meaningfully to the world. She expressed gratitude to the Chinese government, Ambassador Chengwu, the Confucius Institute, and the University of Liberia faculty and staff for their commitment to the program’s success. She concluded by emphasizing the enduring value of bridges built through language, education, and cultural exchange, expressing hope for continued growth and strengthening of the China-Liberia partnership.
