A band from Valparaiso University performs traditional Chinese music at a reception in Chicago, the United States, on Dec. 7, 2019. The Chinese Consulate General in Chicago held a reception on Saturday afternoon to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States. (Xinhua/Wang Ping)

CHICAGO, Dec. 8 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Consulate General in Chicago held a reception on Saturday afternoon to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges between China and the United States.

The event included sharing of stories on studying and traveling in China, and a small concert featuring Chinese musical instruments.

More than 100 U.S. students who are alumni of Chinese universities and Chinese students studying in the United States attended the reception.

Alan Skalaski, who had studied at China's Central Academy of Fine Arts for over three years, shared his stories in China. Now a junior at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Skalaski said he had been to a number of Chinese provinces, including Shandong and Gansu, and impressed by the beautiful landscapes and arts.

"I'm very enthusiastic about my experience and it's been great," Skalaski said.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of China-U.S. diplomatic relations. In the past 40 years, the bilateral relationship has gone through a lot and made enormous progress, bringing huge benefits to the two peoples and contributing significantly to world peace, stability and prosperity, Chinese Consul General in Chicago Zhao Jian said while addressing the reception.

"I'm sure this experience has given you a heightened understanding of the Chinese culture and Chinese people and the development of our country in this process. Many of you have also become active participants in the cultural exchanges between the two countries, and I'm sure it will become a valuable asset in your life," said Zhao.