Daryl Que Vincent. Photo by Interviewee

The start of a new year often brings stories of hope and cooperation to the forefront. This time, a young diplomat from Liberia takes center stage, sharing his experiences of fostering closer ties between Liberian and Chinese youth. His story offers a vivid insight into how the next generation is shaping the future of international cooperation.

Daryl Que Vincent currently serves as a Senior Desk Officer for Protocol at the Liberian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "Having previously studied at Central South University and worked as a Human Resources Manager at China Harbour Engineering based in Liberia, I have gained first-hand experience in managing cross-cultural teams and understanding Chinese business practices," this young diplomat recently told China Youth Daily.

The key to state-to-state relations lies in close people-to-people ties, and efforts in this direction must start with the youth. At present, China-Africa youth exchanges and cooperation are gradually becoming an important force in promoting the development of China-Africa relations. Vincent is deeply touched by this.

Vincent recalled that many young African engineers, who had been desperate for work, had been lucky enough to have had training on Chinese-led infrastructure projects. In Liberia, for example, Chinese companies involved in road and bridge construction have trained local engineers, enabling them to work independently on future projects. "This type of collaboration equips African youth with the skills needed to drive development and participate actively in high-value industries, keeping them active in their own countries."

Looking ahead, "African and Chinese youth are crucial in fostering innovation and dialogue," Vincent said, "By collaborating on projects in technology, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange, young people can bring fresh ideas and creative solutions to long-standing challenges. Youth-driven initiatives, such as tech startups and cultural exchange programmes, can deepen mutual understanding and create sustainable partnerships."

He suggested that youth should focus on three areas - digital innovation, cross-cultural understanding and sustainability - to contribute to high-quality cooperation. Youth should use technology to address common challenges, build connections through cultural exchanges, and advocate for environmentally friendly practices in joint ventures. (By Jia Zifan/China Youth Daily)