Kong Zhaosheng, vice-president of Shanxi Agricultural University, said, "Today, the arrival of American young friends not only adds a youthful vibrancy to the 40th anniversary of friendship between Shanxi province and Idaho state, but also showcases the enduring strength of China-US friendship."

Kong said he hoped both sides can work together in the future and build more bridges of understanding and connection between the two peoples.

Contact the writers at houchenchen@chinadaily.com.cn.