Athens - The "Looking China·International Youth Film Project" Outstanding Works Screening & "Study in Chongqing" Promotion Event opened at the University of Athens on September 24, bringing together young voices and cultural perspectives from China and Greece.
The event gathered representatives from government, education, and cultural institutions of both countries, along with faculty and students of the University of Athens, young film directors, and media representatives. It offered not only a feast of film and culture, but also a vibrant dialogue across borders.
Group photo of guests at the "Looking China·International Youth Film Project" Outstanding Works Screening & "Study in Chongqing" Promotion Event.
Youth Films as a Bridge for Civilizational Exchange
Han Xiao, Deputy Director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Committee of Southwest University, hosts the event.
The program, themed "Seeing China through Images, Talking about Civilization with Youth" featured screenings, filmmaker talks, and study-abroad promotion sessions. The event was moderated by Han Xiao, Deputy Director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Committee of Southwest University.
Zhao Deming, Deputy Director-General of the Publicity Department of the CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, delivers a speech.
In his remarks, Zhao Deming, Deputy Director-General of the Publicity Department of the CPC Chongqing Municipal Committee, highlighted that since 2017, the "Looking China" project has engaged youth filmmakers from more than 20 countries to create over 70 documentary films in Chongqing. "Through these films, audiences can see Chongqing in the eyes of Greek youth — from steaming hotpot to the grandeur of the Three Gorges to the smiles of local citizens," Zhao said.
Chloe Balla, President of the Greek Council of the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilization.
Chloe Balla, President of the Greek Council of the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilization, noted: "Youth are the hope of the future, and film is the most direct language. We look forward to more creative exchanges between our two countries' young people."
Since its launch 15 years ago, the "Looking China" project has attracted 1,100 young filmmakers from 102 countries across five continents, resulting in 1,041 short documentaries that have won over 200 international awards.
Greek youth directors interviewed by reporters from the Western China International Communication Organization.
The showcase included the short film "Behind the Scenes of Looking China," capturing moments of foreign filmmakers working in China. Three award-winning films created by international youth directors were screened, each presenting unique perspectives on Chinese culture and contemporary life.
Two directors shared their creative journeys, describing how filming in China deepened their appreciation for Chinese culture. Their candid reflections resonated strongly with the audience.
"Study in Chongqing": Opportunities for Global Youth
Screening of the “Study in Chongqing” promotional video series.
The "Study in Chongqing" Promotion Event further energized the event. A promotional video series produced by the Western China International Communication Organization highlighted the city’s educational resources and dynamic urban life. Testimonials from overseas alumni showcased the career opportunities available to international graduates.
Zhao Deming introduced Chongqing's 80 universities and their advantages in youth education and innovation. Since the global launch of the "Study in Chongqing" initiative in 2025, nearly 900 young people from Greece and other European countries have come to study in the city. "Chongqing is committed to becoming a leading destination for international education and youth entrepreneurship," Zhao said.
Chen Yimin, Vice President of Chongqing Vocational Institute of Engineering.
Wang Yong (right), the Chinese Secretary-General of the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilization, with Anna Semertzi, student from the International Joint MA in Chinese and Greek Civilizations: A Comparative Approach.
Zhang Yong, Principal of the High School Affiliated to Southwest University.
Chen Yimin, Vice President of Chongqing Vocational Institute of Engineering, presented his institution's achievements in internationalization. Student Anna Semertzi from the International Joint MA in Chinese and Greek Civilizations: A Comparative Approach, along with Wang Yong, the Chinese Secretary-General of the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilization, and Zhang Yong, Principal of the High School Affiliated to Southwest University, shared their impressions of Chongqing, sparking strong interest among Greek students present.
"Study in Chongqing" is one of the flagship initiatives under the "China, an Opportunity: Chongqing Brand" Global Promotion. Since May 2024, it has been promoted in Brazil, Peru, Italy, Singapore, and Egypt, with plans for continued expansion worldwide.
Warm response from the audience at the event.
The event was co-hosted by Southwest University and the University of Athens under the guidance of the Information Office of the Chongqing Municipal People's Government. It was jointly organized by the School of Journalism and Communication of Southwest University, the Center for Chinese and Greek Civilization, the School of Philosophy of the University of Athens, and the School of Economics and Political Sciences of the University of Athens.