On September 19, the 22nd “Connecting the World: Overseas Friendship Workshop” kicked off in Shenyang, Liaoning Province. This event, organized by the China Overseas Chinese Federation in collaboration with the Liaoning Provincial Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese and Northeastern University, welcomed a diverse group of participants.
Cheng Xueyuan, a member of the Party Leadership Group and Vice Chairman of the China Overseas Chinese Federation, attended the opening ceremony, where he delivered a keynote speech. His remarks were joined by insights from Sui Qing, a member of the Standing Committee of the Liaoning Provincial Party Committee and Minister of the United Front Work Department.
The workshop brought together 50 young leaders from the overseas Chinese community, representing 31 countries and regions. Over the course of the program, these participants engaged with courses designed to enhance cultural exchanges and effectively convey China’s story on the global stage. Activities included theoretical studies, discussion sessions, unique teaching experiences, and site visits to notable locations such as the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation and Siasun Robot & Automation Co.
In his address, Cheng highlighted the significant contributions of returned overseas Chinese and their families to China’s economic development, fostering friendships between nations, promoting practical cooperation, and facilitating civilized dialogue. He encouraged attendees to utilize this opportunity to deepen their connections with China and to actively participate in, witness, and benefit from the country’s modernization efforts.
Sui also shared his aspirations for the workshop participants, urging them to showcase Liaoning’s latest achievements and its vibrant, livable environment to the international community. He called on them to broadly promote Liaoning and share its unique stories, contributing their innovative spirit and patriotic pride towards the province’s transformation into a prosperous future.
The “Connecting the World” initiative represents a significant branding effort by the China Overseas Chinese Federation, aiming to strengthen overseas ties while advancing national interests. Since its inception in 2018, the federation has successfully conducted 22 workshops in collaboration with local organizations.
After the ceremony, participants toured the exhibition titled “Dreaming Together with Our Shared Roots,” organized by the Liaoning Provincial Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese and the Provincial Public Cultural Service Center, in honor of the 75th anniversary of New China’s founding.
