Blessings beyond buses and beverages

Bridge for communication

"I know language is the bridge for cross-border communication. I hope eventually to work in Kyrgyz-Chinese translation, business liaison and people-to-people exchanges, drawing on my strengths to build a communication bridge and serve as a youth ambassador for bilateral friendship."

Tashbolotov describes Zhengzhou as an inclusive and vibrant city steeped in thousands of years of history. It has also offered an unexpected personal connection, he said.

"After arriving in Zhengzhou, I was surprised to learn that the Yutong buses I used every day to commute back home were made right here in the city where I study."

Dong Pengfei, associate dean of the School of International Education at Zhengzhou University of Industrial Technology, who oversees international student administration and exchanges, views youth dialogue as the most fundamental and enduring tie between countries.

The university works closely with Kyrgyz higher education institutions on degree programs, joint research and two-way cultural exchanges, Dong said.

"Kyrgyz students come to China to experience its development and deepen their professional knowledge, and our faculty and students travel to Kyrgyzstan to share Chinese culture and understand Central Asia. This interaction fosters deep dialogue, cultural identity and emotional ties between young people of both countries," Dong added.