City officials from the world have toured the southeastern Chinese city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang Province on Thursday to see the unique charm of the city famed for its history and modernization.
The activity is part of the Global Mayors Dialogue, which aims to deepen understanding and cooperation between cities across the globe.
Co-hosted by the Hangzhou municipal government, the Zhejiang provincial government, and China Global Television Network (CGTN), the forum kicked off in Hangzhou on Wednesday. Mayors and representatives from 24 cities across 15 countries attended the event, along with diplomats and local officials.
The tour began in the Friendship Garden of Hangzhou International Sister Cities.
Since the first batch of trees were planted here in 2008, there are now over 90 in a garden that symbolizes the friendship between Hangzhou and foreign cities. They also highlight the efforts of different cities in promoting environmental preservation.
Xu Weihua, deputy mayor of Hangzhou, planted trees of friendship with foreign guests.
"Needless to say you have to plant trees for people's shade you never meet in your life. So to me, this is wonderful. We see so many delegations that came far far far away and very close to be here. It's a testament that together we can find common solutions to climate change," said James Reginald Colimon, deputy director of Global Affairs and Protocol of Boston, USA.
The officials also got the chance to learn about the history of Hangzhou by visiting the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu.
The site dates back to the late Neolithic period, when an early regional state emerged in the Yangtze River Basin. The discovery provides unique evidence for China's 5,000-year-old civilization.
For some guests, it also serves as an inspiration for how to better manage tourist attractions.
"Of course, because this is a historical area, I can see how they preserve the natural beauty and ruins here, and I think this one will be very good for us to emulate back in my city," said Dr. Haji Sabin Bin Samitah, mayor of Kota Kinabalu, state capital of Sabah, Malaysia.
The final stop for the guests was the Hangzhou office of Alibaba Group, the Chinese tech giant that specializes in e-commerce, retail, technology and entertainment. Some of the mayors said the visit has inspired them to pursue new opportunities for cooperation.
"We have many products in Africa, many many products. How to sell those products, how to reach the global market is an issue. Maybe one of the opportunities could be offered by this platform," said Dr. Oumar Cisse, mayor of the City of Rufisque, Senegal.
Hangzhou, now a leader in innovative development in China, has long been known for its stunning landscape and rich history.
The tour not only aimed at helping international investors learn more about the famous historical city, but also contributed to fostering greater understanding and cooperation between different cities across the world.
Global city officials visit Hangzhou to learn its history, modernization drive
Hong Kong and Macao have adorned their streets and landmarks with festive decorations to celebrate the upcoming National Day.
China's National Day falls on Oct 1 and the National Day holiday lasts from Oct 1 to 7.
China's national flag (five-star red flag) and the flag of the Hong Kong SAR are seen in the streets and alleys across Hong Kong, adding a patriotic atmosphere to the National Day celebrations.
Before and after the National Day, Hong Kong will hold hundreds of celebration events. And the colorful firework displays will been held at Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor on the evening of Oct 1.
"On the occasion of the celebration of the 75th anniversary, all sectors in Hong Kong are joyfully and eagerly preparing. With joyful hearts, we are ready to set off the fireworks. Wishing our country to be strong and the people to be prosperous. Wishing Hong Kong to also flourish and prosper," said Pui Kwan Kay, president of the Hong Kong Chinese Importers' and Exporters' Association.
This year marks the 75th anniversary of the People's Republic of China. Through 75 years of hard work, the Chinese people have transformed China from an impoverished country into the second largest economy in the world. Several hundred million people in rural areas were lifted out of poverty, a miracle in the history of humanity, inspiring people from all walks of life in Hong Kong and Macao. "With the efforts of generation after generation of predecessors, the People's Republic of China has progressed from an impoverished country to the current stage of a moderately prosperous society in all respects. Especially since the 18th CPC National Congress, the various significant achievements made by the country have instilled the people across the nation with full confidence," said Edward Leung Hei, member of the Legislative Council of the HKSAR.
Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges, chief executive officer of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, stressed that Hong Kong has made impressive achievements under One country, Two systems.
"It's enormous and overwhelming development, and I am really impressed how mainland has developed in this time under the One Country, Two Systems. It's a unique opportunity of Hong Kong to integrate economically into the wider Greater Bay Area. Dynamic, competitive and a global outlook," he said.
In Macao Special Administrative Region, national flags and holiday banners can be seen all over the streets.
"As young people from Macao, we are all very excited and proud of the development of our country. The destiny of Macao is always closely linked with that of the motherland. As the country further deepens reform comprehensively with a view to advancing Chinese modernization, Macao will have much to offer and achieve. I wish our great motherland to become even more prosperous, and Macao's development to continue to improve. I hope that we will advance together towards the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," said Jau Wing-hou, vice president of the Macao Youth Federation.
Since its return to the motherland 25 years ago, Macao has made significant advances in various fields and achieved prosperity and stability, according to Grace Wong Kit-cheng, member of the Legislative Assembly of the Macao SAR and vice president of the Women's General Association of Macao.
"Since its return to the motherland 25 years ago, with the support of the country, the society of Macao has achieved historic accomplishments in various fields including economy and people's livelihood. Residents live and work in peace and contentment. The stage of development is getting bigger and bigger, which fully demonstrates the strong vitality and advantages of One country, Two systems. The motherland has always been the strong supporter for Macao to maintain long-term prosperity and stability. I believe that Macao will also participate in the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, integrate into China's overall development, and gain a greater and broader space for development and development momentum. Only when the motherland is strong can Macao be better," she said. "The country is advancing the great cause of building a great country and achieving national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization. We believe this will also bring new development opportunities for Macao. This year marks the 25th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland, and we are full of confidence in the development of the motherland and Macao. We believe that all sectors in Macao will actively integrate into the overall national development and make new contributions to the country's development," said Ip Sio Kai, a member of the National Committee of the CPPCC, also president of the Macao Association of Banks.
Hong Kong, Macao adorn streets, landmarks with decorations to celebrate National Day
