For 30-year-old Estevan Nicholas Marin Quintero from Colombia, his first visit to China was nothing short of "incredible".

"I've been deeply impressed not just by the country's rich culture and history, but also by how people treated us with such kindness and warmth," he said.

Quintero was one of more than 50 young leaders who participated in the 2025 "Bridge of the Future" China-Latin America and Caribbean Youth Leaders Campus, held from July 18 to 20 in Xi'an, the ancient capital of Shaanxi province.

Hosted by the All-China Youth Federation and organized by the China Youth University of Political Studies (CYUPS) and the Shaanxi Youth Federation, the three-day event offered a vibrant platform for mutual understanding and joint development between the youth of China and the LAC region.

The campus brought together delegates from nine LAC countries and the Ibero-American Youth Organization, alongside young Chinese professionals and scholars.

Through forums, cultural visits, and in-depth discussions, participants not only exchanged ideas and visions but also built new friendships and a strong sense of solidarity.

Zhang Chuanhui, Party secretary of the CYUPS, emphasized youth development as a vital component of national modernization. He encouraged young leaders to become pioneers of peace, development, and cross-cultural exchange.

"Looking to the future, we must fully draw on the existing experience of youth cooperation between China and Latin America, and work together to pursue shared development and revitalization," Zhang said in his opening remarks.

Xu Yongsheng, honorary chairman of the Shaanxi Youth Federation, welcomed the international guests and introduced the region's historical legacy and strategic significance.

"Shaanxi is a key hub in the Belt and Road Initiative, a frontier of China's westward opening-up, and an important transportation corridor," Xu said. "We sincerely invite friends from Latin America and the Caribbean to visit more often, to experience our splendid culture, enjoy our beautiful landscapes, and share in the opportunities brought by Chinese-style modernization."

For many delegates, a highlight of the visit was the trip to the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors — a UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of China's ancient civilization and archaeological excellence.

Buried for over two thousand years, the life-size army was created to guard the tomb of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of the Qin Dynasty (221-206 BC). Each figure is unique, with distinct facial features and postures.

"The site attracts massive crowds — it's unlike anywhere else in the world," said Luan De Gusmao Medeiros Scliar, a delegate from Brazil. "Only China can present history on such a grand scale, with such deep reverence."

"The visit isn't just about economics — it's also about identity, about showing who we are and where we come from," he added. "China is doing that very well. I wish Brazil could achieve the same."

Beyond historic wonders, the group also visited Fucha town, a cultural destination famed for producing fucha, or dark tea — once a prized commodity traded along the ancient Silk Road.

Delegates observed the traditional fermentation process of brick tea and learned about its economic role in supporting local communities.

"I come from Colombia, a country known for its coffee," said Quintero. "Seeing how tea production here contributes to the local economy and supports families made me reflect on the value of our own agricultural traditions."

The visit to Shaanxi also offered a glimpse into China's modern achievements. "I was impressed by the sustainable infrastructure," Quintero said. "From the electric vehicles on the streets to the eco-friendly buildings, it's clear that China is not only honoring its past but also investing in a future focusing on green development."

Voices for change

Throughout the program, discussions focused on the role of youth in addressing global challenges — from climate change and the energy transition to cultural preservation.

Xiomara Andrea Acevedo Navarro, also from Colombia, highlighted the importance of this moment in history.

"We are living at a time when more than 50 percent of the global population is under 35," she said. "This is the moment when we must change everything that hasn't been working."

Douglas Ferreira, a youth policy advocate from Brazil, stressed the potential of China-LAC cooperation.

"This is a critical time. Global challenges are converging, and I believe youth cooperation between China and Brazil can help create a more balanced and inclusive world order," he said.

Scliar agreed, reflecting on the deeper value of cross-cultural gatherings.

"This international event allowed us to share our work and exchange best practices," he said. "But the most meaningful part for me is building connections — not just formal partnerships but sharing experiences on a human level."

"This is about communication," he added. "It's about making new friends and sharing dinner together. It's about sitting at the same table, riding the same bus."

guojiatong@i21st.cn