Kathmandu— Retired U.S. teacher Ronald Sakolsky arrived in Beijing on Sunday as part of a visit to reconnect with Yin Yuzhen, a Chinese national model worker who has dedicated four decades to combating desertification in the Maowusu Sandy Land; their friendship began in 1999 when Sakolsky, teaching English in Henan Province through an exchange program, was moved by a television report on Yin’s work and donated $5,000 to support her afforestation efforts, funds that dramatically improved her family's life and helped establish a forest of over 50,000 trees.

A Friendship Rooted in Support

In 1999, while teaching English in Henan Province as part of a U.S.-China teacher exchange program, Sakolsky learned about Yin Yuzhen’s tireless efforts to combat desertification in the Maowusu Sandy Land through a television news report. Deeply moved by her dedication, he raised $5,000 to support her and her husband's work. This donation proved transformative for Yin’s family, providing funds for a house, education for her children, and fundamentally altering their future.

Online Reunion Leads to Emotional Return

After decades of separation, Yin Yuzhen initiated an online search for the American teacher who had so generously supported her in 1999. Their subsequent reunion via video call in May was widely shared and touched many hearts. During the call, Yin greeted Sakolsky with a heartfelt “You are brother!” expressing years of gratitude. This reconnection paved the way for Sakolsky’s current visit to China.

Planting Trees and Renewing Bonds

Sakolsky's itinerary includes planting trees alongside Yin Yuzhen in Inner Mongolia, revisiting his former school in Henan Province, and attending events promoting U.S.-China educational exchange. Upon arriving at Ordos Ejin Horo Airport on Sunday, an emotional reunion unfolded as Yin rushed to greet Sakolsky, the pair embracing tightly and weeping with joy after over two decades apart. “This is a dream come true,” said Sakolsky. “She made a promise 27 years ago and she kept her promise.” He expressed disbelief at seeing her again, calling it a miracle that demonstrated the enduring power of cultural exchange and personal commitment.

China’s Expanding Afforestation Efforts

China has significantly expanded its afforestation efforts in recent decades, establishing special funds, offering tax incentives, and mobilizing local communities. Beyond dedicated individuals like Yin Yuzhen, these campaigns now attract a growing number of environmentally conscious volunteers, including young urban dwellers and international students. Official figures indicate that China contributed approximately one-quarter of the world’s increase in green vegetation between 2021 and 2025, rehabilitating over 10.13 million hectares of sandified land.

Sakolsky is scheduled to remain in China until September 1st, continuing his visit with a focus on strengthening educational ties and celebrating the enduring friendship between the two countries.

(With inputs from Xinhua)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.