Guo Xinbao, director of the China Soong Ching Ling Science and Culture Center for Young People, says that the Joy Dancing Beijing program has been embracing the spirit of the ancient Silk Road since 2012, inviting young people from countries along the Silk Road Economic Belt and 21st Century Maritime Silk Road to Beijing.

"This initiative has been planting the seeds of peaceful cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, mutual learning and benefit in the hearts of young participants, and has built a platform for cultural exchange and learning among young people, encouraging them to become important contributors to the co-construction of the Belt and Road," Guo says.

A team of students from Thailand staged their dance performance Amazing Thailand at the opening ceremony, and a member of the team, Nantanut Boonbusakorn, gave a speech as a representative of the international participants.

"I believe that every country possesses its unique charm, and I believe that each young person onstage here today can become a bridge between nations. Through cultural and artistic exchanges, we can further mutual understanding and integration," she says.

"Learning about, and understanding, the diverse cultures of the world, civilizations become more colorful through exchanges, and are enriched through mutual learning."

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