The youth represent the future of countries and guardians of global health. Though far apart geographically, the youth from China and the United States share the awe of life and passion for innovation, said Shen Xin, vice-president of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, at the opening ceremony of the event at Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou on Tuesday.

In an increasingly interconnected world, no country can face global challenges alone. That's why international collaboration is not just important, it's essential, said Lauren Raymond, a general surgery resident at Yale University.

The US and China are not only the two largest economies in the world but also two of the most powerful drivers of scientific and medical innovation.

"By supporting academic and scientific exchange programs like this, we can foster joint projects and build partnerships," she said.