US youths pose for a photo on a cruise along the Huangpu River in Shanghai. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

Young people from the United States have found Shanghai to be an ideal environment for youth development and innovation during their three-day tour of the city.

As part of the Bridge of the Future China-US Youth Exchange Program, two delegations comprising 27 youths from various states across the US explored the city from June 9 to 11.

The participants ranged from 18-year-old undergraduates to seasoned entrepreneurs over 40 years old.

Their first stop on June 9 was the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Hall, where they showed keen interest in integrated circuits, biomedicine, artificial intelligence, as well as the latest applications of big data, cloud computing, and technology financing in Shanghai's urban development.

They delved into Shanghai's century-long development plans and inquired about the latest policies and updates regarding the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, the integrated development of the Yangtze River Delta region, and the development of Shanghai's Jiading, Qingpu, Songjiang, Fengxian and Nanhui districts as its "five new towns."

On the afternoon of June 9, they visited the Museum of Fudan University, where many of the youths paused in front of a photo of President Reagan during his 1984 visit. Fudan was the first university in China to host an American president following the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Upon seeing photos of notable figures like Microsoft founder Bill Gates giving speeches at Fudan University, they expressed their hopes for a lasting friendship between China and the US.

During their visit to the Greater Neo Bay high-tech zone on June 11, Shiloh Beeler, a Microsoft software engineer, remarked on its beautiful environment and complete facilities, deeming it suitable for youth development. Born in 1999, Beeler, on his first visit to China, was surprised to find an artificial intelligence industry hub housing renowned companies like Microsoft and Intel.

He commended the rapid development of and thoughtful planning in technological innovation in Shanghai, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to learn about China's advancements in science, technology, and city governance. He hoped to share his experiences with friends in the US and encourage more people to visit China.

Zachary, a PhD student from the University of California, also on his inaugural trip to China, expressed a desire to collaborate with Chinese researchers in health-related research in the future.

Michael Fergus, whose company has undertaken several incubation projects, showed keen interest in China's startup incubators. He sought insight into how they provide resources for businesses and assist small and medium-sized enterprises in finding opportunities.

Michael Selden, CEO and co-founder of Finless Foods, cherished the opportunity to engage with young entrepreneurs in Shanghai, finding inspiration for his own entrepreneurial endeavors and management. Having previously worked in Shanghai for a year, he eagerly anticipated more opportunities to explore and understand China.

The tour also included visits to the Yangtze River Delta Zhaoxiang Business Park and an ascent of the Shanghai Tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Some American youths experienced local family life by visiting Shanghai youth homes, while others enjoyed the festive atmosphere of Zhujiajiao town in the suburbs during the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival on June 10.

After concluding their Shanghai visit, they will proceed to Beijing for further exchanges.

Their visit forms part of a larger initiative announced by China in November, aiming to bring 50,000 young people from the US to China over the next five years to facilitate cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.

This June, 16 groups of American youths participating in the Bridge of the Future China-US Youth Exchange Program will visit 13 province-level regions across China for exchanges. 

Sources: China Daily, Xinhua News Agency