BELGRADE, May 1 (Xinhua) -- Residents of the Belgrade's Blok 70 woke up on Wednesday, the Labor day, to an unusual sight - dozens of Chinese students were picking up garbage scattered around nearby parks, alleys and marketplace.
For the first time the Chinese students marked the May Day in Serbia with a campaign to clean up public spaces around the most frequented Chinese shopping mall in the Serbian capital.
Among some 50 participants on the rainy spring morning was Chen Yishan, who has spent four years in Serbia, finishing high school before enrolling in a medical school.
"It is the first time for us to organize such an activity, not just to get to know each other, but also do something special for the Serbian community on Labor Day," she said.
From kids of just few years old to university students, plus several Chinese shop owners, all with black trash bags and garbage picking sticks - an impressive sight for passers-by.
"This is really quite a view," one senior citizen remarked, while taking photos with his mobile phone. Another commented: "I came here from a nearby town to meet some friends, but I am eager to join the action here."
"See how hard-working these kids are, no wonder China has developed so fast," said a third man standing in what grew into a small crowd of mostly senior citizens.
Serbians traditionally mark the Labor Day on May 1 as a national holiday, most of them spending the day with family or friends at picnic sites or scenic spots.
Milos Nikcevic, a local resident, said he admired the idea of Chinese youngsters, but was surprised with such a campaign on this day, as most Serbians usually spend May Day for leisure.
Some Chinese businessmen closed their shops for the holiday and stayed to support the campaign.
"I think this is a great activity showing that the second generation of Chinese businessman in Serbia wants not only to promote trade, but also to preserve the environment," said Jin Dongrong, president of the Serbia Overseas Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, adding "it is also a tribute to all laborers."
