The delegation from the China-ASEAN School of Economics at Guangxi University visited Chiang Mai University and co-hosted the “China-Thailand Youth Lancang-Mekong Collaboration” International Academic Exchange Conference with the Faculty of Humanities and the College of Arts, Media and Technology (CAMT). The event coincided with China’s 41st Teachers’ Day, adding warmth and special significance to this cross-border dialogue and creating memorable value for youth academic exchanges between China and Thailand.

Group photo of the “China-Thailand Youth Lancang-Mekong Collaboration” International Academic Exchange Camp

Delegation with students from the Department of Chinese Language, Faculty of Humanities, Chiang Mai University

The opening remarks were delivered by Ms. Gu Mengyu from the Department of Chinese Language, Faculty of Humanities at Chiang Mai University, who warmly welcomed the Guangxi delegation and highlighted the geographic and cultural ties between the two countries. She expressed hope that the academic dialogue would help young people from both universities deepen mutual understanding and serve as a bridge of China-Thailand friendship. This was followed by Mr. Li Xiongying, Associate Dean of CAMT, who emphasized the importance of the “product + culture” collaboration model in enabling students to showcase professional competence while also exploring the cultural heritage behind local products.

Opening remarks by Ms. Gu Mengyu

Remarks by Mr. Danaitun Pongpatcharatorntep

On behalf of Guangxi University, Ms. Wei Lixia expressed sincere appreciation to the hosts for their thoughtful preparations. She noted that it is through face-to-face academic exchanges that mutual understanding and cooperation can be strengthened, thereby advancing China-Thailand friendship and broader Lancang-Mekong collaboration.

Remarks by Ms. Wei Lixia

The highlight of the exchange was a showcase prepared by Chiang Mai University’s Chinese language students, who presented locally inspired products including herbal hand cream, Snake Brand body powder, peppermint nasal balm, handmade soaps, and a variety of regional snacks. These exhibits reflected the integration of Thai traditional craftsmanship and modern innovation, as well as the diversity of Thailand’s health, daily-use, and food industries. Students introduced the production processes, raw materials, and cultural context, sparking lively discussions with the Guangxi delegation on market positioning and potential cooperation.

Showcase session by students from the Department of Chinese Language, Chiang Mai University

Students from Guangxi University engaged actively, linking the presentations to consumer habits in China. The atmosphere was lively, with bilingual exchanges, note-taking, and frequent laughter. “I am very grateful for the suggestions from our Chinese peers; their design ideas are excellent,” said Thai student Li Dongdong. Meanwhile, Guangxi student Chen Lili shared, “Working with Thai friends on local products has helped me better understand Thai consumer culture and, more importantly, build genuine friendships.”

Interactive session between Chinese and Thai students

Chinese and Thai students discussing Thai local specialty products

As the closing session, Chiang Mai University arranged a Teachers’ Day tribute. In accordance with Thai tradition, student representatives presented a handmade floral garland to Ms. Wei Lixia, symbolizing respect and gratitude. The ceremony concluded with a group photo of all participants, marking the successful conclusion of the exchange in an atmosphere of warmth and shared vision for cooperation.

Group photo of Chinese and Thai teachers and students during the Teachers’ Day tribute

This event was a meaningful international exchange, with every segment—from lectures to exhibitions—bringing valuable experiences. Looking ahead, the China-ASEAN School of Economics will integrate these insights into teaching and research, advancing educational collaboration and talent development with ASEAN universities under the framework of Lancang-Mekong cooperation. The School remains committed to cultivating young talents with a global outlook, contributing to regional educational synergy and sustainable development.

Written by Chen Lili, Chen Sisi, Ouyang Jinglin, Jiang Shujing

Translated by AI

Proof Read by Yu Na, Chen Yanyang

Edited by Gan Ziying

Reviewed by Gong Zheng