An African student from Zhejiang Normal University signs a student's book at a school in Xiaoshan district, Hangzhou, on Sept 5. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

As part of celebrations for Hangzhou's first International Day, a group of African students from Zhejiang Normal University were invited to spend time at a local school in Xiaoshan district, Hangzhou.

During the visit they played football with local students and impressed them by singing Chinese songs.

We hope to strengthen the relationship and understanding between China and Africa, and build a bridge of friendship between the two peoples, said one school staff member.

"Teenagers symbolize the future and the hopes of the nation. The friendly relations and mutual understanding between Chinese and African students lays a solid foundation for the development of bilateral ties,"  said Lou Xuping, principal of the school, adding that he hoped African students could witness the great changes in Xiaoshan over the years through their visit.

African students from Zhejiang Normal University pose with school staff. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

An African student from Zhejiang Normal University teaches students to play football. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]