KALYAN: B.K. Birla Public School, Kalyan, hosted its Global Youth Summit 2026 on October 31 and November 1, where students interacted with diplomats from Singapore, China and India on global cooperation, cultural understanding and the responsibilities of young leaders.
The guests included Cheong Ming Foong, Consul-General of the Republic of Singapore in Mumbai; Swapnil Thorat, an Indian Foreign Service officer; Qin Jie, Consul-General of the People’s Republic of China; Wang Jinshen, Consul at the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China; and Ma Zhouchen, Vice Consul at the Consulate General.
Culture and trust in diplomacy
Cheong spoke about Singapore’s multicultural society and the role of cultural exchange in diplomacy. Personal contact and language, he said, help build trust across borders.
Thorat drew a comparison between scientific research and diplomacy, saying both depend on facts, patience and human judgement. Both speakers said mutual respect and the warmth of people are common to every culture.
‘Form your own opinions’
Addressing the closing ceremony, Qin Jie stressed the importance of co-curricular activities in preparing young people for leadership. Speaking about BRICS, he pointed to the values its member nations share, including family, community and common prosperity.
He urged students to follow world affairs, form independent opinions and strengthen communication between the youth of India and China. He also noted students’ interest in the Chinese language and festivals, and the traditions and values the two countries share.
The school said the summit gave students a chance to look beyond borders and see how culture, dialogue and informed young minds can contribute to a more cooperative world.