Chongqing - As China and Russia deepen cooperation across multiple fields, education remains an important channel for strengthening bilateral ties and fostering mutual understanding among younger generations. The launch of the China-Russia Years of Education in 2026 offers fresh impetus for academic collaboration, student exchanges and cultural interaction.
Sichuan International Studies University in Chongqing held a themed event on Oct. 16, bringing together seven Russian art troupes and nearly 1,000 Chinese and international students and faculty members for performances and cultural activities celebrating friendship between the two countries.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the China-Russia strategic partnership of coordination and the 25th anniversary of the China-Russia Treaty of Good-Neighborliness and Friendly Cooperation. The education initiative provides an opportunity to expand cooperation and give young people greater exposure to each other’s languages, cultures and traditions.
Sichuan International Studies University in Chongqing holds a cultural performance titled “A Bridge of Arts Between China and Russia: Youth Looking Toward the Future” on Oct. 16. (Photo/Organizer)
The event featured a cultural performance titled “A Bridge of Arts Between China and Russia: Youth Looking Toward the Future.” Chinese and Russian participants presented a program of dance, songs, Peking Opera, musical theater, Hanfu displays and instrumental music, showcasing the artistic traditions of both countries.
Chinese and Russian students perform in a choir at Sichuan International Studies University in Chongqing on Oct. 16, celebrating friendship between the two countries. (Photo/Organizer)
For Alina Gorskaia, an exchange student at Sichuan International Studies University from Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, studying in Chongqing has offered an opportunity to broaden her horizons and learn about China firsthand.
Alina Gorskaia, an exchange student at Sichuan International Studies University in Chongqing, shares her perspective on China-Russia exchanges after participating in the event. (Photo/Natalia Vakhrusheva)
“I’m very happy to be here in Chongqing as an exchange student,” Gorskaia said. “Events like this help build bridges between countries by bringing people together and allowing them to learn from one another. Art and language play an important role in this exchange. I’ve noticed growing interest in China among people in Russia. With the visa-free policy making travel between our countries easier, I believe more Russians will have the opportunity to visit China, discover its traditions and gain a deeper understanding of the country.”
A Chinese performance unfolds during the “Chongqing Night · Nanbin Concert,” with Chongqing’s illuminated cityscape in the background. (Photo/Organizer)
The celebrations continued that evening with the “Chongqing Night · Nanbin Concert” on the outdoor plaza of the Chongqing Planning Exhibition Hall. Chinese and Russian teachers and students joined local residents for a special program featuring performances that highlighted the artistic traditions of both countries and Chongqing’s cultural character.
Russian traditional dance is featured at the “Chongqing Night · Nanbin Concert,” set against Chongqing’s breathtaking nighttime skyline. (Photo/Organizer)
The university also organized cultural activities under the theme “Discovering China at the Foot of Gele Mountain,” along with visits introducing participants to its history and tradition of Russian-language education. Students from both countries exchanged perspectives through video screenings, short presentations and collaborative projects.
Hands-on activities, including traditional Chinese lacquer-fan making, calligraphy and sugar painting, gave participants further opportunities to engage with Chinese artistic traditions.
Russian youth learn Chinese calligraphy during cultural activities at Sichuan International Studies University in Chongqing. (Photo/Organizer)
By combining performances with cultural experiences and student interaction, the event drew on Sichuan International Studies University's strengths in foreign-language education and international cooperation.
During China’s 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030), the university aims to expand opportunities for international youth exchanges and deepen educational ties, helping foster mutual understanding and lasting friendship between China and Russia.