On July 21, 2025, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng delivered remarks at the opening ceremony of the China-U.S. Flying Tigers Friendship and Cooperation Forum via video link. The forum was co-hosted by the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation and the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Xinjiang Council in Urumqi, Xinjiang. 

Ambassador Xie pointed out that the spirit of the Flying Tigers embodies the courage and commitment of China and the United States to safeguard peace, the profound friendship forged between the two countries in fighting side by side, and genuine expectations for carrying forward the goodwill. It has been and will continue to be a precious asset for both countries and peoples. The hope of the China-U.S. relationship lies in the people, and its future depends on the youth. It is hoped that there will be more Flying Tigers of the new generation in both countries, who will commit themselves to promoting the friendship between the two peoples, and advance the stable, sound and sustainable development of China-U.S. relations.

Ambassador Xie said Xinjiang is a wonderful place. Its vast land is richly endowed with natural resources. Different ethnic groups are living here in unity and harmony. Its economy is thriving, and people’s life is getting better and better. Xinjiang’s future will only be even brighter. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Over eight decades ago, Chinese and American pilots defied the odds to fly over the Tianshan Mountains and open up a new route of the Hump, leaving an unforgettable chapter in the history of China-U.S. relations. Today, this beautiful land is welcoming young Americans with open arms, who will experience firsthand the happy life and splendid culture of various ethnic groups here, open up a new “Hump Route” with peers in Xinjiang, and explore a right way for China and the U.S. to get along with each other in the new era. Ambassador Xie expressed his hope that young friends from the U.S. will embark on a journey to delve into the colorful China, a journey to carry forward the spirit of the Flying Tigers, and a journey to deepen mutual understanding and friendship between Chinese and American youths.

Descendants of Flying Tigers veterans and nearly a hundred young Americans visited China to participate in the forum.