International students and sinologists participate in the exchange event in Lishui, Zhejiang province. [Photo/Lishui Daily]

The seventh edition of the "Into Lishui, Understand China" international exchange event has been held in Lishui, Zhejiang province.

Fourteen international students from countries including Portugal, Jordan, Zimbabwe, and Gambia, together with eight sinologists from countries such as the United States, Germany, Italy, and Turkey, gathered in the city.

Through walking tours and roundtable dialogues, they explored Lishui's natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and development changes, promoting cross-cultural understanding.

The visitors toured urban and rural areas, experiencing smart transportation, ancient architecture, traditional villages, and the vibrant atmosphere of old streets.

International student Jallow Hagiratou said the trip reshaped her view of China's countryside, noting how local authorities preserve ancient dwellings, develop cultural tourism based on ecological assets, and pursue common prosperity for villagers.

A thematic dialogue session served as the core activity, where sinologists shared the spiritual essence and unique charm of Chinese culture, while students reflected on their life in Lishui and their visit to Songyang county.

Sinologist and translator Elham Sadat Mirzania believes international students will become non-governmental friendship envoys, presenting an authentic and multidimensional image of China to the world.

An official from the municipal foreign affairs office of Lishui said the city will continue to enhance its international exchange brand, build a regular youth platform, and use its landscapes and culture as bridges to promote mutual learning between civilizations and tell China's development stories.