Nearly 200 university students from around the world visited Guangzhou this week as part of a cultural exchange program aimed at strengthening ties between young people and promoting international friendship.

The event, organized by the Guangzhou Foreign Affairs Office in partnership with the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), brought together foreign freshmen, students from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, and representatives from Guangzhou's international friendship cities.

Among them were 45 students from sister cities including Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco, Bristol, Frankfurt, Genoa, Fukuoka, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Auckland and Sydney.

Juya, a student from Bristol, said his first impression of Guangzhou was overwhelmingly positive. "I love the lights, the food, and especially the diversity of the culture," he said.

During the visit, students explored key landmarks such as Canton Tower, People's Park and the Pearl River, where they learned about the city's mix of history, culture and modern development.

At Canton Tower, several were struck by the sweeping views. "It's a beautiful, big city. In Greece, we don't have cities like this," said Nicolas, from Greece.

Rihanna, from Ireland, said the skyline felt unlike anything at home. "In Dublin, we don't have tall towers like this. I've never been this high up in a tower before. It's very, very different."

The group is also scheduled to tour companies including Xpeng Aeroht, GAC Aion and EHang to see Guangzhou's progress in new energy vehicles, artificial intelligence, the low-altitude economy and other emerging industries.

Jacob, from Germany, said he was impressed by the city's digital convenience. "China is very modern with all the apps. You can pay so easily with QR codes," he said. "Yesterday we went to Hong Kong on the high-speed train. We bought our tickets with WeChat and really enjoyed the trip."

For many, the program also provided a chance to build friendships. "We're sleeping in a dorm with both international and Chinese students," said Arne, from Germany. "We've had nice evenings together talking and sharing our cultures."

Participants said the experience gave them a deeper understanding of Guangzhou as an open and inclusive city that blends tradition with vitality. Many said they plan to share their experiences with friends and family back home and hope to return in the future to study or work.

"These young people have already gained so much," said Yang Yong, Director General of the Foreign Affairs Office in Guangzhou, "this program also brings new youth and vitality to Guangzhou's circle of global friends."

The two-week summer program, running from August 10 to 23, has drawn about 600 students overall, including more than 140 international participants from 31 countries.