Under the auspices of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Affairs (CPAFFC), a delegation from the Iraq-China Friendship Association embarked on a cultural exchange program in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, on April 27.

The initiative aimed to foster mutual understanding between China and the Middle East by showcasing the nation's rich heritage, technological innovation, and contemporary dynamism. The delegation's itinerary highlighted the fusion of tradition and modernity in Guangzhou.

Members visited Xu Hongfei's Sculpture Art Studio, where Iraqi artist and student Jasim Al-Rubaye marveled at masterpieces that blend classical techniques with avant-garde creativity. "I draw in academies and dream of studying art in China," he shared. "One day, I hope to work here, blending Iraqi and Chinese aesthetics." His words echoed the sentiments of many participants, who viewed the studio as a microcosm of cross-cultural inspiration.

Iraqi student Jasim Al-Rubaye received a portrait from an art master in Guangzhou, China (Photo: Qin Shalong)

In Yongqing Fang, a historic district emblematic of Lingnan culture, influencers explored traditional architecture and sampled local delicacies. Sayf Al-Ani, an Iraqi social media influencer with over 800,000 Instagram followers, reflected on his journey: "From Beijing to Guangzhou, every city offers unique flavors. Chinese cuisine is not just food—it's poetry." His posts, featuring his footprints in various Chinese cities, resonated widely with his followers.

Later, a visit to GAC Group's futuristic exhibition center underscored China's advancements in smart manufacturing. Delegates marveled at electric vehicles and AI-driven technologies, reflecting on how such innovations align with global sustainability goals. Sajjad Al-Qazzaz, PR director of the Iraq-China Friendship Association, noted: "Many often view China through a lens of ancient mystique. Here, we saw its cutting-edge prowess."
Delegates visit GAC Group's exhibition center (Photo: Qin Shalong)

Social media served as a bridge for real-time storytelling. Mustafa Al-Safawi, a TikTok star with 1.9 million followers, contrasted his experiences with Western media narratives: "They say China is 'closed.' But in Guangzhou, I met people who welcomed me like family. Their warmth shattered all myths." His candid videos, capturing everything from bustling markets to Cantonese opera performances, garnered viral attention, prompting viewers to rethink their perceptions of China.

Sajjad Al-Qazzaz, who has lived in China for a decade and currently serves as PR director of the Iraq-China Friendship Association, emphasized the transformative power of personal narratives.

"Ten years ago, people asked me, 'Why study in China? What's good about it?'" he recounted. "Now, they ask, 'How can I study in China?' This shift is immense. I want more Iraqi friends to witness the real China themselves." His journey—from a student in Zhejiang and Hunan provinces to a cultural bridge-builder—reflects the deepening ties between the two nations.
Sajjad Al-Qazzaz enjoyed night view on a Pearl River cruise (Photo: Qin Shalong)

As the journey concluded, the influencers' accounts painted a vivid portrait of Guangzhou—its timeless traditions, technological leaps, and hospitable spirit. These digital snapshots offered a rare glimpse into a harmonious, evolving China. Meanwhile, Chinese audiences gained insight into the shared aspirations bridging civilizations. The exchange proved that when curiosity meets cultural courage, barriers dissolve, and empathy flourishes.