The Inception of “The Belt and Road”-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program

In his keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation, President Xi Jinping pointed out, "Belt and Road cooperation was proposed by China,but its benefits and opportunities are for the world to share" The Sino-African collaboration on the "Belt and Road" provides a crucial perspective for the international community to understand Sino-African relations. In service of the "Belt and Road" initiative, the Sino-North Africa Education Innovation Association, in collaboration with the Government of Monastir and University of Monastir in Tunisia, initiated the“The Belt and Road”-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program in 2018.

The project has successfully hosted two sessions up to this year, with the active participation of numerous Chinese universities, over 200 educators, and students. Centered around the theme of cultural exchange, cultural understanding, and cultural ambassadorship among Chinese and African youth, the project is strategically designed to enhance the international perspectives of university students, address cultural shock, and elevate their cross-cultural communication skills. The program boasts a richly diverse content and activities that distinctly embody multicultural characteristics.

Establishing diplomatic relations in January 1964, China and Tunisia have maintained long-term, healthy, and stable friendly relations. In commemoration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Sino-North Africa Education Innovation Association led a delegation comprising more than 60 students and teachers from six Chinese universities, including Beihang University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology（HUST）, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture (BUCEA)，North Minzu University, Guangdong Ocean University, and Beijing Polytechnic, to participate in the 10-day "The Belt and Road”-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program from January 21 to January 30, 2024.

On January 21, the delegation arrived in Tunisia.

During this trip, the participating students shared their genuine experiences and impressions. The following are their reflections.

Tunisia, located at the northernmost tip of the African continent, boasts ancient civilizations and a rich Mediterranean culture. Our meticulously planned itinerary for the Tunisian journey promises a unique and fulfilling experience. After thorough meetings and preparations, we have outlined the overall plan and prepared for cultural performances. I am filled with anticipation for this journey, hoping to experience an intriguing cross-cultural encounter and immerse myself in Tunisia's cuisine, music, and traditions, broadening my horizons through learning and exchange.

One of the activities that particularly captivates me is the visit to the local attractions in Monastir. Tunisia, being a country unfamiliar to me, holds the promise of unique architecture and scenery. I look forward to witnessing the distinctive buildings and landscapes that characterize this North African nation, unveiling cultural features different from those I am accustomed to.

In summary, this marks my farthest international travel experience, and I am delighted to embark on this journey with many interesting companions, exploring the stories of the African continent. 

——Zhou Sitong

The "Belt and Road" initiative orchestrates a global symphony, unfolding its dynamic charm on the stage of history. The Chinese nation, through sweat and wisdom, continues to write the magical and touching stories along this vast and enduring road.

In this journey, we are heading towards Tunisia, situated at the northernmost point of Africa, a partner in China's "Belt and Road" initiative. With a unique blend of African, Arab, and Mediterranean attributes, Tunisia encapsulates ancient civilizations and a distinctive Mediterranean culture.

Not long ago, President Xi Jinping exchanged congratulatory messages with Tunisian President Kais Saied on the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Tunisia. Through these messages, I sensed the friendly relations between the two countries, the confidence in working together for a better future, and, consequently, a heightened curiosity about this nation.

Through photographs and reference materials, I gaze into the origins of this country. The rugged, earthy yellow cliffs, pillars, and stone steps bearing historical imprints, as well as its intricate connections with ancient Greece and Rome, add a captivating historical charm to Tunisia. Moving through time, the longstanding handicrafts, fishing, and sponge harvesting industries continue to illuminate the country's economy. Local specialties such as olive oil, wine, and pomegranates exude a subtle fragrance, calling out to us. As the departure day approaches, the excitement in my heart intensifies, propelling me to explore the splendid culture of this country and discover exotic tales.

In the anticipated imagination, we will experience the local education system, dance to Tunisia's rhythms under the lantern lights and dazzling stars alongside the locals.

In conclusion, I hope that we all reap rewards from this rare journey, grow together in the process of enjoying joyful moments, and exhibit a strong team spirit, daring to take responsibility and cooperating for mutual growth during our Tunisian adventure.

——Yang Shuyun

After a day-long journey by plane, our Beihang-Tunisia team has finally landed! Right from the beginning of the itinerary, everyone felt the warm atmosphere within the group – from team members having fun at the boarding gate to everyone eagerly observing the vast sea from the plane, and the constant reminders from our guides at each transit point.

Moreover, the local staff in Tunisia has been incredibly helpful, patiently using translation software to assist us in solving many challenging issues due to language barriers. Tunisia is a country where Arabic is the official language, but the cultural and geographical differences have not hindered our curiosity about this land. The upcoming journey will undoubtedly become more exciting day by day, and we are determined to truly integrate into the life of Tunisia and spend pleasant moments with local friends.

——Sun Yan

Traversing thousands of miles, we have arrived in Tunisia from Beijing. What kind of city made everyone yearn for it for over a month, enduring a nearly 16-hour hard-seat experience on the plane?

The tall palm trees swayed under the sea breeze, and the Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd blossoms were enchanting. As the group admires the beach and street view, the enthusiastic and friendly locals will use unique greetings to pull your gaze back to the other side of the street. At this point, we became the "scenery" in the eyes of the locals, strolling on the beach and taking photos under the sunset.

The journey in Tunisia has just begun, looking forward to the wonders and stories that tomorrow will bring.

——Cai Wenzhe

At 5 AM Beijing time, perhaps after taking the Turkish coffee handed over by the flight attendant, I found it difficult to fall asleep on the plane to Istanbul. Flying at an altitude of ten thousand miles, I saw the waning crescent moon beside my shoulder. With the rise and fall of the aircraft, the moon moved vertically with the sea level as a reference, like a flawed bouncing ball falling vertically onto the tabletop. Five hours had passed since departure, and I must have traveled a thousand miles away from home.

Although the distance was just a physical concept in my mind, I did not feel much about being in a foreign country. Just a year ago, when I first entered university, an eight-hour high-speed train journey and a blink of an eye brought me to Beijing. Sixteen hours of flying, and arriving at the destination should also be a momentary effort. However, my heart has always been difficult to calm down: the inevitable excitement and fear in the face of the unknown, the first successful conversation with fellow passengers gave me great encouragement.

I looked outside the window, listening to the Beatles playing repeatedly in my headphones, and thinking like this. Outside the window is an endless ink-like blackness, and occasionally appearing lights are precious in this view. The settlements are mostly cross-shaped, square, and circular, like stars holding the moon, and countless small dots form orange galaxies, surging towards the center point, which is truly wonderful. People meet here, build buildings, construct roads, and then hang lights between the buildings, with flowing lights on the roads. In the midst of joy, people come and go from all directions, and only time leaves stories here.

Such scenes are embedded in the mountains and seas all over the world, and Beijing is just one of them. The important thing is communication. Without communication, civilization will die a natural death, just like pressing the "off" button, and the world will return to darkness.

I didn't come for the darkness, so when the flight attendant asked me, "Tea or coffee?" I immediately replied to her, "Coffee, please." So, at 6 AM Beijing time, this essay was born.

——Hu Xuan

Students from Beihang University embarked on a transcendent journey, commencing from Beijing and traversing thousands of miles to reach the shores of the Mediterranean in Tunisia after a sixteen-hour flight. This expedition signifies not only a spatial traverse but also a confluence of cultures. Tunisia boasts diverse geographical features, ranging from deserts to coastlines, mountains to plains, creating a unique and captivating landscape. The sights along the way profoundly immerse us in the wonders and vastness of nature.

May this educational journey not only provide intellectual enlightenment but also serve as a spiritual adventure. In this ancient yet vibrant nation of Tunisia, we anticipate gaining a profound understanding of global diversity. Exploring the richness of cuisine, flora and fauna, and the scenic beauty, we aim to discover the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature.

Let us delve into the narrative of Tunisia, allowing this distinctive odyssey to leave an indelible mark on our memories.

——Hu Ke

（Student essays are taken from: Official Account of Beihang University）