The new industrial district of Mohammed VI Tangier Tech City, a joint Chinese-Moroccan project, is taking shape in northern Morocco's coastal city of Tangier.
The project was one of many agreed between China and Morocco during the visit of Morocco's King Mohammed VI to China in 2016.
Construction began in the second half of last year and the new city will eventually cover approximately 2,000 hectares and host over 200 multinational companies in a range of free trade industrial zones, technology hubs, residential areas and commercial spaces.
"The investment we are seeking is basically around automotive parts and new energy related industries. This aligns with the current trend of Chinese companies going global and Morocco's national strategy to strengthen its automotive supply chain and expand the new energy sector," said Yan Bin, General Manager of the Morocco Office at China Road and Bridge Corporation, one constructor of the project.
The first 500 hectares of the project are currently under construction with over 80 percent of the land already allocated to around 20 multinational companies.
"Our settlement here has been warmly welcomed by the local government as we bring advanced technology, which fills a gap in Morocco's green industry initiative. Our entry has also attracted related upstream and downstream companies, which is a crucial step in building the industry's ecosystem," said Peter Yang, General Manager of BTR Mediterranean New Material Technology.
When it's finished, the 300-million-U.S. dollar project will directly create 100,000 local job opportunities and around 300,000 indirectly, those involved in the project say.
The new tech city is not only for Chinese and Moroccan companies, but also welcomes companies from other countries. As Morocco has bilateral free trade agreements with the European Union and the United States, the smart city could help boost global industrial and supply chain connectivity.
China-funded smart city to bring tech and jobs to Morocco
China's new "silver trains" are transforming senior travel from a logistical hurdle into a seamless adventure, offering onboard AI-powered classes, emergency medical support, and tracking devices, all designed for passengers aged 65 to 70.
Recently in Jinan, east China's Shandong Province, hundreds of excited senior citizens boarded one of China's innovative "silver trains", a groundbreaking travel service designed specifically for elderly passengers.
The train set off on a weeklong journey to Sichuan Province in southwest China, carrying over 400 senior passengers with an average age of 70. Designed for comfort and engagement, the specially configured train offered more than just transportation. Each traveler received a comprehensive guide featuring weather forecasts, outfit recommendations, and a schedule of onboard activities, from AI workshops to traditional Chinese ear therapy sessions.
"I have finally relaxed and gone on a trip. Even though it's my first time, it feels so familiar, just like coming home," said a first-time traveler, reflecting on the welcoming atmosphere.
"They even have group leaders, medical staff, plus opportunities to learn, sing, and join photography contests. They've really thought of everything," said another passenger.
Xu Mei, deputy secretary of China Railway Shandong Culture and Tourism Group, highlighted the rising demand for senior-friendly travel experiences.
"As our living standards have improved, I feel that retirees are now seeking more fulfillment on a spiritual and emotional level. Silver trains are a great way for seniors to travel," she said.
The journey featured cultural visits to historical landmarks such as Huangze Temple and breathtaking natural landscapes like Jiuzhaigou Valley.
For 70-year-old Wang Jingke, a former professor, the trip fulfilled her lifelong dream.
"I have dreamed of this place (Jiuzhaigou Valley). I finally made it," she said.
Meanwhile, enhanced safety measures ensure peace of mind, featuring portable tracking devices for added security.
"Xiaowen, can you hear me?" Wang tested her device, to which the tour guide promptly responded, "I see your location."
Medical support is available onboard, with emergency SOS devices equipped with cords installed throughout the carriages for safety.
"The SOS emergency signal can help with location tracking. There's a rope attached to it. For elderly passengers, especially those who are weak or suddenly fall seriously ill, they can pull the rope. This way, the monitoring center can accurately pinpoint their location, and our doctors can reach the area immediately," explained former physician Li Qiuping.
With China's population aged beyond 60 exceeding 300 million, accounting 22 percent of the total, experts see great potential in such senior-focused services.
Liu Xiangdong, an associate professor of the School of Economics and Management at the University of Science and Technology Beijing suggested future improvements.
"In terms of accessibility and safety, the train can improve the aisle slope, add more accessible restrooms in the future, to reduce the risk of falls for seniors. To accommodate age-related changes in vision and hearing, features like voice-controlled lighting and VR viewing devices could be introduced," Liu said.
As these silver-haired travelers attend classes, make new friends, and explore scenic destinations with tailored support, China's silver trains are redefining what retirement travel can be, turning what was once a challenging experience into a comfortable, enriching adventure.
China's "silver trains" redefine senior travel with customized services
