"We have the opportunity to be ambassadors of Bolivian culture, which is so rich and diverse. We're going to show our knowledge and take full advantage of what China has to offer us."

David Castaneta, 20, a resident of La Paz, made the remarks when receiving a scholarship from Chinese Ambassador to Bolivia Liang Yu on Friday. He will study civil engineering in China.

Fourteen other Bolivian students also won the scholarships, which are part of a cultural cooperation agreement between the two countries. These students will study at various universities in China to pursue their bachelor's, master's and doctorate degrees.

It took several months for Castaneta to make sure that he had won the scholarship.

"I'll be studying for five years. In one year I will learn the language and in four I will have my degree," he expressed his happiness on Friday.

Sergio Choque, 18, who received a scholarship to study medicine, said he thought that the hope of being selected was small due to his lack of social resources.

"My family is offering their unconditional support. I'm determined to make the most of this opportunity," Choque said, who will study in China for six years.

Wendy Melean, another awarded student who will study international business, said she "is traveling to a powerful country and will be taking full advantage of the opportunity."

She said she is eager to begin her studies and will return to Bolivia to share everything she is about to learn.

Dunia Marino Zuleta, who is 28 years old, will pursue a doctorate in business administration. She said she has a bit of an advantage because she speaks the language.

"I had the opportunity to travel and get to know China. I fell in love with the culture. I want to deepen my understanding of a country with such incredible potential in international commerce," Zuleta said.

"We will continue working with Bolivia to give more scholarships to students so they may have the opportunity to have a career," said Liang, the Chinese ambassador.

"Bolivian youth have the opportunity to get ahead because of these scholarships and they should take full advantage to achieve a career," said Ivan Iporre, general director of the Plurinational State Public Management School.