The Third China-Cyprus Youth Forum, held from October 22-25, 2024, marked a significant milestone in the strengthening of cultural, educational, and technological ties between the two nations. Organised by the Chinese Embassy in Cyprus, in collaboration with the Nanjing Municipal People’s Government, the Ministry of Education, Sport and Youth of Cyprus, and various academic and municipal institutions, the event saw participation from over 60 youth representatives and dignitaries from both countries.
This year’s theme, “China and Cyprus: Work Together for a Shared Future,” reflects the ever-growing importance of youth in shaping the future of bilateral relations between the two ancient civilizations. More than 30 representatives from nine Chinese cities, including Nanjing, Qingdao, and Guangzhou, visited Cyprus, engaging in a series of cultural exchanges, academic discussions, and tours of significant historical and technological sites.
During the week, participants visited the parliament of Cyprus, the University of Cyprus, the Cyprus University of Technology, the Cyprus Museum, and the CYENS Centre of Excellence, among others, giving the visiting Chinese delegation a comprehensive understanding of Cyprus’ cultural and scientific landscape. The Cyprus Mail was among the media supporters of the event, ensuring widespread local coverage of this important exchange.
The focal point of the week was the Youth Forum held at the European University Cyprus on October 23-24, where participants from both nations exchanged ideas on key topics such as Mutual Learning Between Civilizations, Digital Transformation, and Green Development. These discussions underscored the strategic importance of youth collaboration in addressing global challenges and fostering a harmonious relationship between China and Cyprus.
Ambassador Liu Yantao’s Vision for Mutual Growth
At the heart of the forum was a keynote speech delivered by Ambassador Liu Yantao, who emphasised the significance of youth as the driving force behind China-Cyprus relations. Ambassador Liu highlighted the progress made since the establishment of the China-Cyprus strategic partnership in 2021 and urged the young participants to build upon the strong foundation already laid by previous generations.
He noted that the forum, now in its third year, has become a flagship platform for bilateral youth exchanges, facilitating in-depth discussions on some of the most pressing issues of our time. The ambassador’s remarks focused on three core areas that are pivotal to the future of humanity: mutual learning between civilizations, digital transformation, and sustainable green development.
“Mutual understanding and respect between civilizations are the cornerstones of peaceful and prosperous global relations,” Ambassador Liu said. “China and Cyprus, as two ancient civilizations, have much to share in terms of cultural wisdom and ethical values. It is through youth-led dialogues like this that we can ensure these values are upheld and passed on to future generations.”
Ambassador Liu also underscored the critical role of digital transformation in driving economic growth and development. China’s commitment to advancing its digital economy, which now contributes around 10 per cent of its GDP, positions it as a global leader in technological innovation. He encouraged Cypriot and Chinese youth to collaborate in areas of science and technology to propel both nations forward in this digital era.
The final pillar of Ambassador Liu’s speech was a call to action on environmental sustainability. He spoke of China’s ambitious carbon neutrality targets and the country’s efforts to promote green productivity and energy transitions. Drawing on examples from his hometown Baicheng, which transformed from a saline-alkali wasteland into a thriving ecological hub, he emphasised the necessity of balancing human progress with environmental preservation.
Key Topics: Culture, Technology, and Green Development
The forum’s discussions, centered on mutual learning, digital innovation, and green development, reflected the global challenges and opportunities that unite the youth of both nations.
Mutual Learning Between Civilizations
Both Chinese and Cypriot participants expressed a shared respect for the diversity of civilizations, underscoring the importance of dialogue, inclusiveness, and mutual learning. As representatives of two ancient cultures, the youth acknowledged their role in promoting humanity’s core values, such as peace, fairness, democracy, and freedom. This mutual understanding is expected to further strengthen people-to-people exchanges and foster cooperation across sectors.
Digital Transformation
The digital economy emerged as a key area of discussion, with both sides recognising its potential to drive global growth. Youth representatives emphasised their dedication to science and technology innovation, advocating for greater collaboration in the digital sphere. By harnessing their creativity and technological expertise, the youth of both nations hope to contribute to world science and technology development while ensuring that digital dividends are shared across humanity.
Green Development
Environmental sustainability was another vital topic, with participants agreeing on the importance of protecting and respecting nature. The forum underscored the need for a low-carbon, eco-friendly lifestyle, and the youth pledged to lead efforts in fostering green productivity. Their discussions focused on advancing the all-round green transformation of both economies and ensuring harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature.
The Nicosia Declaration: A Commitment to a Shared Future
At the conclusion of the forum, the participants jointly issued the “Nicosia Declaration,” a document that reaffirms the commitment of Chinese and Cypriot youth to advancing bilateral ties and working together to build a shared future for mankind. The declaration highlights the mutual resolve to promote peace, respect cultural diversity, advance digital innovation, and protect the environment.
This document, issued in the presence of officials and representatives from both governments, symbolises the deep-rooted partnership between China and Cyprus, one that the youth are determined to sustain for generations to come.
Moving Forward
The Third China-Cyprus Youth Forum serves to reinforce to the enduring friendship between the two countries and the critical role that young people play in this relationship. As emphasised by Ambassador Liu, “Youth brings vast hopes, and young people create a better future.” With the successful conclusion of this event, the groundwork has been laid for continued cooperation in areas of mutual interest, ensuring that the bonds between China and Cyprus remain strong well into the future.
Through initiatives like this forum, the youth of China and Cyprus are actively contributing to a world that values collaboration, innovation, and sustainability—a world where ancient civilizations can work together for a shared future.
