"Belt and Road: Thailand Meets Hong Kong – ASEAN Youth Exchange" took place in Hong Kong from January 19 to 24. Organized by the Hainan Association of Hong Kong and sponsored by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau, the program brought together a delegation of over ten Mister International (Thailand) titleholders for a six-day cultural exploration of the city.
During their visit, the delegates explored iconic sites, including the Legislative Council, the Yau Tsim Mong district, and the University of Hong Kong. They immersed themselves in the city's urban development, vibrant neighborhoods, and cultural heritage, while also experiencing the warmth and hospitality of Hong Kong's locals.
Through street food tastings, temple visits, and interactions with local youth, the delegates shared heartfelt impressions—comparing Hong Kong to mangoes, oranges, and passion fruit—for its sweetness, symbolism, and energy. One delegate exclaimed, "I want to bring egg tarts back to Bangkok!" Their candid reactions reflect not only joy and curiosity but also the power of meaningful cross-cultural exchange.
Legislative Council member Joephy Chan, who welcomed the delegation to LegCo, emphasized that such exchange activities go beyond ceremonial visits. "They are about real conversations and genuine connections," she said. "They help build trust and open up new perspectives in our interconnected world." She also expressed hope to see more thematic exchanges in the future, allowing overseas visitors to experience Hong Kong's true spirit—beyond the skyline and into the heart of its communities.
(Journalist: Zoey Sun | Video editor: Felicia Li)
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