As the 31st summer edition of the FISU World University Games kicks off in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China embraces its summer season diplomacy, extending a warm welcome to foreign leaders to discuss ways to enhance bilateral relations and foster global solidarity in the post-COVID-19 era.
The opening ceremony of the Chengdu Universiade was graced by Chinese President Xi Jinping and esteemed foreign leaders from Guyana, Georgia, Indonesia, Burundi, and Mauritania. President Xi highlighted that the Universiade has always embodied the spirit of youth, solidarity, and friendship, urging nations to uphold this spirit in facing global challenges together. He emphasized the importance of deepening exchanges and mutual learning to promote harmony without uniformity, embracing inclusiveness in international cooperation.
Analysts view the Chengdu sports event as a positive start for China’s summer season diplomacy, centered around the keyword “solidarity.” By hosting the Universiade, China demonstrates its commitment to bridge cultural gaps and promote international cooperation, rejecting the negative influence of divisive approaches rooted in Cold War mentalities.
Throughout the Universiade, President Xi engaged in bilateral meetings with visiting foreign leaders, discussing pragmatic cooperation and advocating for the creation of a community with a shared future. During his meeting with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, President Xi expressed China’s willingness to deepen strategic cooperation with Indonesia and set an example for developing countries in fostering solidarity and cooperation for common development. This meeting reinforced the friendship between China and Indonesia, establishing a solid foundation for future cooperation.
Notably, China’s focus on cooperation and unity among developing countries differs from the confrontational tactics adopted by the US and Western allies. Hosting the Universiade in Chengdu and warmly welcoming foreign leaders signifies China’s openness and commitment to cooperate with the international community for common development.
The Universiade provides a valuable platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and facilitates communication among participants, emphasizing unity and solidarity over disputes and differences. China’s determination to promote international cooperation through sports underscores its role as a host nation and its commitment to fostering global understanding and friendship.
The event resonates with the world, shifting the focus towards unity and solidarity, and reflecting China’s vision of a shared future. By hosting the Universiade, China sets an example of openness, cooperation, and willingness to unite with more countries to build a community of shared aspirations.