Celebrating 80 Years of China-U.S. Friendship at the 2025 Kuliang Forum

Forging New Chapters in China-U.S. People-to-People Friendship

The recent Kuliang Forum, held in New York City, marked a significant moment in nurturing the longstanding friendship between China and the U.S. Themed "Echoes of History", the event attracted representatives from various sectors, uniting them to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. This commemorative occasion was steeped in the spirit of solidarity that once defined the relationship between these two nations.

Presidents and officials have often referenced the Kuliang story, a heartfelt symbol of China-U.S. friendship. Its significance was highlighted by Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has championed initiatives to emphasize its relevance in contemporary bilateral relations. In previous letters of encouragement for forums and festivals, Xi has continually promoted Kuliang as a bridge to strengthen ties between the peoples of both countries.

The Kuliang legacy shines brightly through the ongoing efforts of active supporters of this friendship. Initiatives like the "Kuliang Friends" and various cultural exchange programs such as the "Bond with Kuliang 2025 China-U.S. Youth Choir Festival" have played pivotal roles in fostering understanding between Chinese and American youth. Over 1,000 young singers from both nations joined forces, harmonizing not just music but also the ideals of friendship and cooperation.

The assembly serves as a testament to the notion that, despite differing histories and cultures, both peoples aspire towards a shared future marked by friendship and collaboration. This shared history was further memorialized this year when descendants of the American Flying Tigers were invited to commemorate this European battle against fascism at the renowned Tian'anmen Gate, a moving symbol of peace and unity.

The seventh China-U.S. Sister Cities Conference also explored collaborative avenues for sustainable development, emphasizing that community-level exchanges can significantly enhance relations. Participants exchanged insights on strategies to bolster cooperation, all while striving to turn geographical divides into avenues for collaboration.

Xi's recent correspondence with a youth cultural exchange delegation from Montgomery County, Maryland, emphasized a generational commitment towards friendship. His encouragement for these young ambassadors to foster deeper connections serves as a beacon of optimism, indicating a path forward as they strive to bridge the two nations.

Since launching the initiative to invite 50,000 American youths to partake in educational exchanges with China, this collaboration has seen enthusiastic participation. The activities under this program, including academic dialogues and cultural learnings, are ensuring that positive perceptions of each other continue to flourish amongst the youth of both nations. Surveys reflect a slow, yet encouraging, increase in favorable views of China among younger Americans.

In a pivotal meeting that occurred recently between Xi and U.S. President Donald Trump in Busan, South Korea, strategic discussions were made on advancing cooperation across various fronts, including the crucial domain of people-to-people exchanges. This meeting provided renewed momentum for strengthening ties, signaling a collective aspiration for growth in bilateral relations that is now shared by both nations and their people.

Going forward, reinforcing this bond and encouraging additional engagements remains crucial. Platforms for cultural exchanges must be expanded, fostering tighter connections that promote mutual understanding. Notably, people's efforts have already facilitated significant achievements in China-U.S. relations – a steady course that calls for ongoing commitment and enthusiasm.

In conclusion, the Kuliang story exemplifies the potential of friendship that transcends boundaries. As people continue to engage in meaningful exchanges, we can hope for a future defined not just by shared challenges, but also by shared aspirations and mutual success. This is the essence of what the 2025 Kuliang Forum has ignited – a desire for unity, cooperation, and a vibrant friendship that has the power to resonate well into the future.