Xi'an in Shaanxi province brought together young people from countries involved in the Belt and Road Initiative on Monday in celebration of the 17th UN Chinese Language Day.

Hosted by Xi'an International Studies University, the event offered an immersive Chinese language and culture experience, aiming to deepen mutual understanding and enhance international communication.

Wu Yaowu, the university's president, said the event injected momentum into the university's international Chinese language education and created a platform for young people along the Silk Road to connect on a deeper level.

Plans are underway to expand the university's cooperation network, upgrade its education models, and further strengthen educational collaboration with other countries, he added.

During the event's opening ceremony, a smart platform to boost the university's Chinese language course was launched.

The event included several activities, including music and dance performances, keynote speeches, a food festival, and sub-forums.

Among the participants was Irzum Shafique, a student from Pakistan majoring in computer science at Xidian University who has lived and studied in Xi'an for seven years.

Reflecting on his journey of learning Chinese, he credited his teachers and friends for his vocabulary and tone improvement.

Chinese is not only a tool for communication, but also an important bridge to understanding Chinese culture, he said, adding that he enjoys making dumplings—his favorite Chinese food—and has won awards in Chinese language competitions.

*The content of the above article is from China Daily.