Captivated by Jinping: A Journey of Heart and Friendship....

In the enchanting city of Jinping, nested in the picturesque landscapes of Yunnan Province, our expedition took an extraordinary turn as we visited two remarkable schools. Accompanied by the esteemed teams from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and China International Press Communication Center, journalists from 21 countries delved into an experience that would leave an indelible mark on our hearts.

The real magic unfolded when we stepped into the China-Equatorial Guinea Friendship Primary School, also known as Jinping County First Primary School. Established in April 1918, it stands as the earliest and largest complete primary school in the county. The red genes of its glorious history connect with the revolutionary struggle, earning it the title of the "cradle of the Jinping revolution."

During our visit, the vibrant energy of the students welcomed us, expressing joy through dance, a language universal and heartfelt. Journalists, caught in the infectious enthusiasm, joined the dance, creating a moment of shared joy. The school's commitment to education and teaching excellence is evident, having garnered over 100 national, provincial, and state-level honors.

The school's journey of growth includes a significant contribution from Mnistery of Foreign Affairs China with a generous donation for a teaching building in 2015. Further enhancing the educational environment,
In 2015, with the care and support of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jinping County First Primary School received a donation of 4.9 million yuan from the Equatorial Guinea government for the construction of a teaching building. The project was completed in June 2016, which improved the educational environment of the school and expanded the scale of the school. The school is also named China-Equatorial Guinea Friendship Primary School.
In 2023, with the help of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Jinping County First Primary School received assistance from Nike (China) to build a five-a-side football field, which is conducive to promoting the development of football and promoting healthy learning and growth of students.

As we engaged with the students, their feedback echoed the joy they found in the school environment, the quality of education, the thrill of sports, and the satisfaction with the meals provided. Their happiness was palpable, painting a vivid picture of a nurturing and vibrant educational community.

Our expedition continued to the Jinhe Town Shuangjinqiao Primary School, the largest complete primary school in Jinhe Town. Its story intertwines with international support, with the Canadian Cultural Center contributing to a new teaching building in 2010. In 2023, the China Rural Development Foundation's "Love Kitchen" initiative added a new dimension, improving cafeteria facilities.

Honors have showered upon Shuangjinqiao Primary School, recognized as a "Rural School Youth Palace Project School," an "Intangible Cultural Heritage Inheritance Education School," and a "Safe Campus" in Honghe Prefecture, among others.

Yet, amidst these institutional achievements, the most poignant moment came when a teacher informed the children of my Pakistani origin. Their warm welcome, referring to China and Pakistan as "Iron Brothers," resonated deeply. In those heartfelt exchanges, I found myself saying, "China, you've truly stolen my heart.