GD TODAY: Young people embody the hope for the future of China and Russia: Galina Kulikova

Upon revisiting Guangdong after several years, Galina Kulikova, China's Friendship Medal Recipient and First Deputy Chairperson of the Russia-China Friendship Association (RCFA), led a delegation from the local branches of the RCFA on April 10 to April 11, visiting Guangzhou and Shenzhen and engaging in visits to and exchanges with several universities.

"It is better to see once than to hear a hundred times," Kulikova quoted the Chinese proverb, expressing her delight at witnessing remarkable new achievements in modernization in the region.

Remarkable transformation unfolds in Guangdong

For Kulikova, every time returning to Guangdong unveils an ever-evolving landscape of progress. Comparing the Guangzhou of yesteryear to its vibrant present, she marveled at the remarkable changes the city has undergone.

Kulikova's connection with Guangdong can be traced back to the summer of 1957 when artists from the Guangdong Ethnic Orchestra and the Beijing Experimental Drama Troupe visited Moscow for the 6th World Festival of Youth and Students. 

Kulikova was a junior at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, working as a receptionist and translator for them. During this period, she became acquainted with the Cantonese Opera master Hung Sin Nui. Over a few months, Kulikova became close friends with the members of the orchestra. When these young Chinese artists returned to China, they continued to exchange letters.

Her involvement in facilitating their visit fostered enduring friendships and cultural exchanges, laying the foundation for her lifelong commitment to Sino-Russian relations.

In October 1983, Sergei Leonidovich Tikhvinsky, then Chairman of the Soviet-Chinese Friendship Association (the predecessor of the RCFA), led a 20-member delegation to China. Kulikova was involved. The delegation stayed at the White Swan Hotel in Guangzhou, the first Sino-foreign joint venture five-star hotel in the Chinese mainland, and Kulikova was deeply impressed by the beautiful scenery of the Pearl River outside the window.

Today, seeing the high-rise buildings on both sides of the Pearl River, which are very different from the scenery of the past, Kulikova's trips to this land have refreshed her perception of China again and again.

"Despite the hardships that China has experienced, Guangzhou has been continuously developing," Kulikova said. "We have witnessed one of Guangzhou's achievements in its development, including the ongoing construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Tomorrow, we will go to Shenzhen, a city that has become a shining example of modernization under China's remarkable development."

Galina Kulikova, China's Friendship Medal Recipient and First Deputy Chairperson of the Russia-China Friendship Association (R1 in the front). (Photo: GDToday) 

Fostering hope through youth exchanges

Accompanying Kulikova on this journey are representatives from nine regions of Russia, predominantly heads of universities, mostly embarking on their maiden voyage to Guangdong. Their itinerary encompassed visits to institutions such as Guangdong University of Finance and Economics and Shenzhen University, underscoring Guangdong's intention to collaborate with Russian counterparts in the realm of education.

During interactions with provincial leaders and academic institutions, discussions centered on enhancing cooperation through joint programs, faculty exchanges, and collaborative research initiatives. Notably, Guangdong University of Finance and Economics signed a cooperation agreement with Kazan (Volga region) Federal University. It marks a significant step towards deeper academic collaboration between Russia and China's Guangdong Province.

Guangdong University of Finance and Economics signed a cooperation agreement with Kazan (Volga region) Federal University. （Photo: GDToday)

Looking ahead, Kulikova emphasizes the importance of nurturing understanding and collaboration between young minds from both countries. 

"Cooperation between universities is of great significance, because universities are training young people, and young people are our future. Exchanges between young people are the hope for the future of our two countries," Kulikova said.

She envisioned expanded cooperation in student exchanges, faculty development programs, and joint research endeavors, underscoring the pivotal role of educational partnerships in shaping the future of Sino-Russian relations.

In September 2017, Shenzhen MSU-BIT University, the first joint university between China and Russia, enrolled the first batch of undergraduate and graduate students. It was a testament to the growing academic ties between the two nations. With increasing numbers of students crossing borders for educational opportunities, Russia has emerged as one of the top source countries for international students in China.

Reporter丨Hannah

Video丨Jimmy

Editor丨Steven, Nan, Abby, James

(GD TODAY 于2024年4月12日报道链接：

https://www.newsgd.com/node_99363c4f3b/8308d20001.shtml)