Into Tunisia | Reflections from Students of the 3rd “Belt and Road” China-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program

With the strong support of the Monastir Municipal Government in Tunisia, the third “Belt and Road” Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador Program has now successfully completed three editions. The program is hosted by the University of Monastir and organized by the Sino-North Africa Education Innovation Association (SNAEIA). To date, it has attracted over 300 students and faculty leaders from more than 30 institutions across China. 

From January 16^th. to 24^th. 2025, SNAEIA led a delegation of 27 students and faculty members from six Chinese institutions on a nine-day cultural exchange trip to Tunisia. The participating institutions were Beijing Polytechnic University, Shanghai Donghai Vocational & Technical College, Beijing University of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Jinzhou Medical University, Qufu Normal University, and Guangdong Ocean University. This "Belt and Road" International Young Talent program, titled “Charming North Africa: China-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador”, provided students with an invaluable international experience. 

Beow, we share some of their impressions from the trip.

NO.01 Li Jingjing, from Shanghai Donghai Vocational & Technical College

“From the moment I arrived in Tunisia, I was embraced by the warmth and friendliness of the local people. While walking through the campus, students consistently offered friendly glances and warm greetings. A simple ‘Marhaba’, the Arabic greeting, was enough to instantly bridge the distance between us.What impressed me most was the genuine curiosity and excitement of the Tunisians, many of whom were meeting a Chinese visitor for the first time. They eagerly asked to take photos together, standing beside me with radiant smiles. Their enthusiasm made me realize how beautiful cross-border friendship can be, turning this journey into an unforgettable memory.” 

NO.02 Yu Shude, Shanghai Donghai Vocational & Technical College

“Before my arrival in Tunisia, my understanding of the country was limited to fragments I had seen online. It was only when I arrived in the province of Monastir that I became deeply captivated by its profound history and stunning landscapes. I encountered a world unlike any I had seen before-basking in the Monastir sunshine, wandering through blue-and-white towns, and gazing up at ancient medieval castles. Strolling along the Mediterranean coast, I watched distant sailboats that seemed to float upon a river of history, silently witnessing Tunisia's evolution. My greatest joy was making a friend named Ahméd. Despite our language barriers, a wonderful friendship blossomed between us. There, I felt the integration of different cultures, from ancient Arab architecture to modern vitality. Monastir taught me that history is not a distant concept; it lies under our feet and in front of our eyes. If one only listens closely, every landscape becomes a conversation across time and space.”

NO.03 Han Junhui, Shanghai Donghai Vocational & Technical College

“What left the deepest impression on me during this trip was the local cuisine's rich diversity. From the creamy Sahlab and the uniquely flavored hot sauce to the use of Mlokhia as a seasoning and the iconic Couscous, every dish was unforgettable. Each culinary discovery brought me a deeper understanding and a closer connection to the Tunisian people and their cultural heritage. While savoring these delicacies, I genuinely felt the warmth and hospitality of the locals. I also took the opportunity to learn some basic local phrases, such as "شكرًا" (thank you) and "مرحبًا" (hello). Every time I used these words, the locals responded with appreciative and excited expressions. We learned each other's languages and acknowledged each other as friends.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude to our accompanying teachers-Yue Baohua, Li Jing, Lu Weilun, Wang Mian, Hu Xue, Ma Baolong, and Li Lina-as well as all the other teachers, volunteers, and friends who provided care and assistance. Thank you all for your concern, guidance, help, and hard work that made this journey possible.”

NO.04 Gao Mi,  Beijing Polytechnic University

“As a Chinese student, setting foot on the land of Monastir, Tunisia, and embarking on a meaningful cultural exchange journey, will remain a cherished memory for me. Strolling through the city streets, the neatly arranged white buildings contrast beautifully with the vast, azure Mediterranean Sea, creating a unique coastal scenery that intoxicates with every glance.At the center for children with disabilities, I spent time drawing and playing games with the children. Their innocent smiles deeply conveyed the fulfillment to us, which comes from giving love. To protect marine culture, I joined local volunteers to learn and exchange ideas on how to clean up beach trash and protect marine creatures, hoping to contribute to the beauty of this ocean.In the sports and cultural exchange, the football friendship match brought the vibe to a climax. On the stadium, although we didn’t find a lingua franca for each other, our common passion for football enabled seamless teamwork. Despite being sweat and exhausted, the laughter, cheers, and encouraging glances allowed us to overcome the cultural boundaries. This exchange not only allowed me to experience the charm of a foreign land but also planted seeds of friendship and responsibility deeply in my heart.”

NO.05 Li Ao,  Beijing Polytechnic University  

“Tunisia is a country where historical charm and a modern atmosphere intertwine. As a key city of Tunisia, Monastir captivated me with its well-preserved ancient city walls, serene streets, and enchanting sea views. The local markets are vibrant and filled with a dazzling array of colorful goods. Furthermore, every local dish I tasted was rich with distinctive Tunisian flavor and character.”

NO.06 Yu Mingyang,  Beijing Polytechnic University

“Since arriving in Tunisia on January 16^th., I have been deeply impressed by its profound history. I encountered this heritage everywhere: from the capital's international airport, named for ancient Carthage-Rome's formidable rival two millennia ago-to Monastir's Ribat, a fortress dating back 1,200 years to the Abbasid Dynasty. I also visited the Great Mosque in the Medina of Sousse, built during the Aghlabid Dynasty. Uniquely oriented towards the east because Tunisia lies west of Islam's holy city of Mecca, it stands without a minaret. The mosaics I saw depict narratives from Greco-Roman mythology and Byzantine iconography, chronicling eras from the Roman Republic to the reign of Eastern Emperor Justinian I, whose general Belisarius reclaimed the province of Kairouan from the Vandals. Beyond these historical treasures, the distinctive charm of the Mediterranean was immediately visible in the abundant palm and olive trees and the warm hospitality of the Tunisian people. During the cultural exchange week, we learned about the Monastir provincial government's strong support for children with special needs and environmental organizations. This commitment to economic development that leaves no one behind truly reflects the innate kindness and integrity of the Tunisian people.

May the friendship between China and Tunisia last forever!

NO.07 Ma Lei, Qufu Normal University

“Monastir is a beautiful city, renowned for its shimmering seas and striking skyline of towers and minarets. This journey to Tunisia gave me a deep appreciation for the country's splendid culture. The most profound impression to me was made by a mosaic in the Sousse Archaeological Museum. This artifact from the ancient Roman period intriguingly depicts a pattern resembling the Chinese Yin-Yang symbol. This discovery suggests that cultural exchanges between China and Tunisia may have occurred over a millennium ago. It is my sincere hope that our nations can revitalize this thousand-year connection and collaboratively write a new chapter under the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative.”

NO.08 Wei Yixi,  Jinzhou Medical University

“Tunisia has always been a place my heart has been longing for. Half of it is a vast desert, and half is the blue Mediterranean Sea. It has both ancient civilization relics and charming natural scenery. Finally, I had the opportunity to set foot on this mysterious land and started this unforgettable journey. I was impressed by the taste of Couscous, a traditional Tunisian cuisine, which can be served with a variety of meats, vegetables and spices, and I also tried to add olive oil, which will make the taste richer!”

NO.09 Lai Zhenkun, Guangdong Ocean University

“The El Jem Amphitheater in Tunisia stands like a slumbering giant, quietly towering over the vast African landscape. The first time I stood before it, an overwhelming sense of temporal dislocation enveloped me, as if I had traveled back a thousand years to the glorious era of ancient Rome.

The sheer scale of the El Jem Amphitheater is so immense that when it first came into view, I could hardly grasp its entirety. Stepping inside, the structure was even more magnificent than I had imagined. The massive oval edifice, with its towering arches and columns, seemed to narrate ancient tales. It was only from the highest vantage point that I could finally take in its full splendor. Once a place of joy and spectacle, it now lies in serene silence. Venturing into the underground passages, the dim light and cold stone steps evoked the tension and fear that gladiators must have felt.

It was only after leaving the amphitheater that I realized how the architectural art of ancient Rome was fully embodied here. Every brick and tile of the coliseum is a testament to the wisdom and hard work of our ancestors.”

Time flies, and the nine-day China-Tunisia Cultural Exchange Ambassador program has come to a successful conclusion. This journey not only allowed the participants to experience the exotic charm of Tunisia but also deepened their understanding of the profound friendship between China and Tunisia. From visiting the faculties and laboratories of the University of Monastir to engaging in cultural exchanges with local youth; from touring olive groves and ceramic factories to participating in marine conservation public welfare activities, every moment was unforgettable, fulfilling, and meaningful.

During their stay in Tunisia, the participants not only embraced the harmony in diversity and the beauty of shared cultures but also made many warm and friendly Tunisian friends. Their smiles, their enthusiasm, and their culture will remain a precious treasure in everyone's life. Although the journey has ended, the friendship and cooperation between China and Tunisia will continue forever. We look forward to meeting again in the future to build more dreams together.