Beijing, China — For Moraima Ordoñez, a Mexican student at Peking University, the similarities between her home country and China are both striking and inspiring. Pursuing a master’s degree in Chinese law, Ordoñez believes that cultural exchange is the key to strengthening ties between China and Latin America.
“When I first arrived in China, I was amazed by how much our cultures share in common,” Ordoñez said. “From family values to our love for vibrant festivals, there’s so much that connects us.”
The year 2025 will mark the 10th anniversary of the China-Latin America and Caribbean Community (CELAC) Forum. Ahead of the fourth ministerial meeting set to take place in Beijing on May 13, Ordoñez is hopeful that these diplomatic initiatives will pave the way for deeper collaboration.
“Under the existing cooperation frameworks, we have a real opportunity to enhance cultural connections,” she explained. “This isn’t just about governments working together; it’s about people from different backgrounds learning from one another and growing together.”
Ordoñez envisions a future where cultural, educational, and artistic exchanges become commonplace. She believes that such interactions will provide momentum for mutual development and foster stronger people-to-people ties across the region.
“By embracing our shared heritage and learning from our differences, we can achieve win-win development,” she said. “I encourage more young people to participate in exchange programs and become ambassadors of their cultures.”
As the upcoming CELAC Forum ministerial meeting approaches, voices like Ordoñez’s highlight the importance of cultural understanding in international relations. For many young people in China and Latin America, the future is bright with possibilities for collaboration and friendship.
