QINGDAO -- The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Youth Campus has brought together young leaders from member and observer countries to Qingdao City of east China's Shandong Province, providing them with a firsthand experience of China's modernization.

Over the last eight years, China organized visits for youth leaders from member states and observer countries to promote youth exchange. The SCO Youth Campus is an important youth activity under the SCO framework, aimed at continuously promoting communication and mutual trust among young people. This year marks the fifth iteration of the camp in Qingdao, a city known for its vibrant culture and economic development.

Qingdao Port, which opened in 1892, boasts over 130 years of history and is recognized as the fourth largest port in the world. For many landlocked countries, visiting the port's automated terminals offers a unique perspective on maritime logistics.

"My name is Bobokhonov Faridun from Tajikistan, and it is my first time in China and in Qingdao City. I saw for the first time this automated port. We don't have sea, but it's interesting to me," said campus member Faridun Bobokhonov.

Mekhroj Rashidov from Uzbekistan noted the advancements in port management.

"We see that this port management, they made a lot of work in automation, and we are glad to see that. It also opens some opportunities for those groups and entrepreneurs who want to make import and export," he said.

During the seven-day program, 170 young leaders from 12 countries engaged in constructive initiatives across various sectors.

Xu Shuyi, a participant from north China's Shanxi Province, highlighted the potential for collaboration in agriculture.
"I work in the field of agriculture. Many SCO member states have vast tracks of arable land, very suitable for developing smart agriculture. There are many opportunities for us to work together," she said.