Over 100 international students from 15 countries, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, and Iran, gathered at the China-SCO Institute of Economy and Trade on Dec 31 and joined residents of Jiaozhou to make dumplings, create decorative dough figurines, write Spring Festival couplets, craft lucky bags, and enjoy tea, sharing a unique and festive cultural experience and engaging in interactive activities representing diverse cultures.

At the event, international students showed a keen interest in making dumplings, a traditional Chinese delicacy. Under the careful guidance of Jiaozhou residents, they immersed themselves in the entire dumpling-making process, from preparing the filling and rolling out the dough to wrapping and cooking, creating a warm and joyful atmosphere.

Together, Jiaozhou residents and international students crafted Spring Festival couplets, auspicious "Fu" characters, and vibrant paper-cuttings, expressing good wishes and creating a festive atmosphere.

Activities like making sachets with artemisia leaves and experiencing the art of tea allowed everyone to feel immersed in traditional Chinese culture through hands-on engagement.

The event featured a series of exciting cultural exchange and interactive programs, resulting in a lively and dynamic atmosphere.

"This is my first time celebrating the New Year away from home. Today, I spent a very memorable time with my classmates and friends from the local community. I have participated in several of these experiential activities and find them very innovative. I look forward to more social interaction here," said a student from Afghanistan.

Over 100 international students gather at the China-SCO Institute of Economy and Trade on Dec 31, where they shared a unique and festive cultural experience and engaged in interactive activities representing diverse cultures. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]