Chongqing - From April 25 to 28, twenty students from Stanford University's "China Studies in Beijing Program" embarked on a meticulously planned four-day academic excursion to Chongqing. This initiative, orchestrated by the Chongqing Municipal People's Association for Foreign Friendship, employed people-to-people diplomacy to foster deeper mutual understanding and friendship between Chinese and American students.

On April 26, the scholar delegation delved into Chongqing University's historic core, photographing its significant architectural marvels. They also engaged in three enriching sharing sessions, sparking in-depth dialogues with the faculty and students.

Andrew George Walder, a sociology professor at Stanford University, reflected on his experiences: " Since my first visit to China in 1980, I have come almost every year. This is my third visit to Chongqing. The city's infrastructure is remarkable, from its stunning bridges to other architectural feats. Of all the places I've been in China, Chongqing undoubtedly offers the finest cuisine."

Andrew Steven Mancini, an urban planning student from the Stanford University. (Photo/Li Xinyi)

A Stanford urban planning student, Andrew Steven Mancini shared his initial impressions: "This is my first visit to Chongqing and China. As an urban planning student, the two rivers' dramatic confluence, along with the striking bridges and modern skyscrapers, highlights Chongqing's vast urban landscape."

Professor Walder expressed a particular fondness for Professor Li Fangchun's presentation because it focused on the essential familiarity between Chinese and American scholars. Meanwhile, Mancini found Ricardo Fu's insights particularly compelling, noting that despite cultural variances, both nations strongly desire entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology. This unique parallel transcends cultural boundaries.

Further enriching their visit, the students toured the Chongqing International Logistics Hub Exhibition Center to learn about the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor's development and operations, showcasing how modern logistics enhance regional economic integration. Their cultural and historical explorations included a visit to the Stilwell Museum, deepening their appreciation of Chinese-American collaboration during the War of Resistance, and a trip to Yongli Village in Yunyang County's Bayang Town, where they observed the tangible outcomes of China's rural revitalization efforts.

Professor Li Fangchun's presentation. (Photo/Li Xinyi)

This study tour equipped the students with invaluable firsthand research materials and profoundly enriched their understanding of Chinese societal, political, economic, and cultural dynamics.