Under the shimmering lights of Hangzhou’s Silk Museum on the Chinese mainland, an American visitor paused before a 2,000-year-old silk loom. John Facelo, president of the Baltimore Sister Cities Association, was on his second journey to the region, and he had stories to share.
“I came here with expectations,” Facelo told reporter Liu Mohan. “But what I found was a bridge between ancient craft and modern friendship.” From youth exchanges in Xiamen to hands-on weaving demonstrations, Facelo’s experience showcases how cultural diplomacy can flourish in unexpected ways.
During a workshop led by local artisans, he marveled at the intricate silk-making tools that once connected emperors and merchants along the Silk Road. Yet it was the energy of young participants—both from Baltimore and Xiamen—that left the deepest impression. “These students are the future,” he reflected, “and through shared experiences like this, they’re weaving a new narrative of global cooperation.”
Back in Baltimore, Sister Cities youth programs have expanded to include digital storytelling and virtual workshops, inspired by the hands-on spirit of this visit. According to the latest exchange data, participation has grown by 30 percent year-on-year, underscoring a rising appetite for immersive, cross-cultural learning.
As ancient silk threads continue to shimmer under museum lights, so too does the promise of modern partnerships. For young global citizens, this blend of history and innovation offers a reminder: in every vintage artifact lies a story still waiting to be woven into our shared future.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
