August 8, amidst the eager anticipation of onlookers, the closing ceremony of the Chengdu Universiade unfolded at the Chengdu Open Air Music Park. This event showcased the pinnacle moments of the 12-day competition. A spectacular scene unfolded as the sun bird extended its wings, casting a radiant array of twelve rays of light. With these rays, the Universiade torch was kindled, only to gradually fade into darkness. The sky was then adorned with a magnificent burst of fireworks, forming the shape of a colossal "Pigeon Flower" (Paulownia) and gracefully concluding the Chengdu Universiade with a touch of romance. As the curtains close on this event, our anticipation now turns towards the upcoming 2024 Chengdu World Horticultural Exposition.

    Amidst the grandeur of the opening ceremony, the resplendent hibiscus flowers unfurled, and the skies erupted in a cascade of "Golden Hibiscus" fireworks, a vibrant display embodying not only the exuberance of youth but also the spirit of openness and camaraderie. These elements converged to embody the central theme of "Flowers Blossom to Welcome Guests," symbolizing Chengdu's warm embrace of university athletes worldwide.

    In the closing ceremony, the majestic Paulownia trees, often referred to as "Pigeon Flower Trees," took center stage. Adorning signposts representing various nations, these trees stood like soaring doves, carrying the aspirations of youth as they reach for their dreams. A poignant message of peace, friendship, and unity was delicately conveyed.

    During this poignant moment, Huang Qiang, Sichuan Province's Governor and the Executive Chairman of the Chengdu Universiade Organizing Committee, shared a story that transcends time. In 1954, Premier Zhou Enlai's joyous encounter with the Paulownia tree by the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland was a symbolic connection to China. Furthermore, the historic year 1869 saw French naturalist Armand David's serendipitous encounter with giant pandas and the magnificent Paulownia trees in the province of Sichuan.

    30 years later, British botanist Wilson voyaged across the seas to China in search of the dove tree, lauding China as the "Mother of World Gardens," and the Chengdu Plain as the "Garden of the Western China."

    Giant pandas and dove trees, as envoys of friendship transcending time and space, convey the message that whether in the past, present, or future, the Chinese people remain eager to join hands with individuals across the globe, forging a more splendid tomorrow together.

    Throughout the opening and closing ceremonies, the trail of "blooms" could be followed at every turn. This served as a heartfelt benediction from the demonstration zone of the park city, which embodies the principles of the new developmental ethos, to the Chengdu Universiade. The seamless fusion of sportsmanship and ecological consciousness silently presented the magnificence of the park city.

    The journey of the Chengdu Universiade train has now reached a momentary halt, with the subsequent destination being the 2024 Chengdu World Horticultural Expo.