Global Gen Z engages in ice and snow sustainability dialogue
The International Youth Forum on Ice and Snow Culture and Ecological Sustainability in Changchun. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]
On March 18, the International Youth Forum on Ice and Snow Culture and Ecological Sustainability took place in Changchun, Northeast China's Jilin province, bringing together university students from over 30 countries, including Canada, the United States, Sweden, Germany, Russia, Azerbaijan, Pakistan, and Vietnam.
A dance performance by international students at the forum. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]
The forum, part of Jilin University’s Changbai Mountain Global University Students Ski Carnival, focused on the development of the ice and snow economy, integration of sports, academia, and research, advancement of the ice and snow art industry, and protection of Changbai Mountain's flora and fauna. It aimed to cultivate a cohort of international youth leaders with shared values and global perspectives.
The Jilin Ice-and-Snow Trend Global Youth Association was established during the opening ceremony, with the first group of global ambassadors receiving their appointments.
Experts such as Wu Dajing, Xin Benlu, Jin Xuefei, and Tian Xuefei delivered lectures on ice and snow sports culture, industrial economy, medical support, and international communication.
International student representatives at the roundtable. [Photo provided to gojilin.gov.cn]
At the youth roundtable, Michalina Joanna Koniuk from Poland expressed her awe at the beauty of Changbai Mountain's snowy landscapes. Tram Thi Thanh Phuong from Vietnam shared her excitement upon seeing snow in Jilin for the first time. "Watching snowflakes fall from the sky was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life, especially coming from a tropical country," she said.
British youth Irfan Ajwa hoped for more opportunities to participate in similar events. Russian participant Serov Matvei observed Jilin and Russia's similar ice and snow resources. "I have seen China's efforts to drive economic development through ice and snow, which is quite inspiring," he said.