Students attend the youth exchange event at the China National Children's Center in Beijing on Dec 8, 2023. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

A youth exchange event simulating a session of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was held at the China National Children's Center in Beijing on Dec 8.

Titled "SCO Future", the gathering brought together 22 teenagers, aged 14 to 17, to simulate the SCO's council of national coordinators. Their discussions centered on tackling climate change, ending with the formulation of a final declaration.

Lai Yuan, a participant from the Beijing Etown Academy, said: "It's a great honor for me to be part of the event. I've gained a lot by not only understanding the operational mechanisms of the SCO but also experiencing the role of being a diplomat."

"We went through intense discussions at the meeting," said Maria Kozlova, who attends the Russian embassy school in Beijing. "Everyone acted as a diplomat, striving for the greatest benefit for the country they represented, while considering other member states' interests. The joint declaration represents the dedicated efforts of each one of us. I feel a great sense of accomplishment."

Students attend the youth exchange event at the China National Children's Center in Beijing on Dec 8, 2023. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Students attend the youth exchange event at the China National Children's Center in Beijing on Dec 8, 2023. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]