International students in Jiangsu compete in a badminton championship in Nanjing. [Photo/WeChat account: njxwfb]

The Belt and Road Badminton Championship for International Students in Jiangsu was held at Zone Grand, an international district in Xuanwu, Nanjing.

The event brought together 32 international student teams from top universities across Jiangsu, including Nanjing University and Southeast University. Representing over 20 countries along the Belt and Road such as Malaysia, Vietnam, Pakistan, Indonesia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and Malawi, the tournament was recognized as the largest of its kind for international students in the province in recent years.

Spectator cheer for contestants in the badminton championship. [Photo/WeChat account: njxwfb]

The championship featured men's doubles and mixed doubles matches, with winners awarded first, second, and third-place prizes. To further promote cultural exchange, a special China–foreign friendship match was held between the elite team of China Pharmaceutical University and a team of international students.

The tournament also served as a prelude to the grand opening of the international block on June 26. Following its launch, Zone Grand will host a range of themed events aligned with the Belt and Road Initiative. These include a Belt and Road Cultural Exhibition, the "Xuanwu Skyline" mini concert by international students, and the Youth Night Market, adding vibrancy to the local community and strengthening global friendships through sports and culture.