Chen Jinsong (left), a second-level inspector from the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism and Gu Zhenqiu, head of Xinhua News Agency London Bureau, launch the London base of the Global Communication Center, which will serve as a platform to highlight Jiangsu's culture and tourism on the global stage, in London on Tuesday. [Photo provided to China Daily]
A cultural tourism promotion event showcasing the charm of East China's Jiangsu province was held in London on Tuesday.
Hosted by the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, the event drew over 100 delegates from the political, business, and cultural sectors of both China and the United Kingdom.
The event also marked the launch of the London base of the Global Communication Center, which will serve as a platform to highlight Jiangsu's culture and tourism on the global stage.
Chen Jinsong, a second-level inspector from the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, speaks at the promotional event in London on Tuesday. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Addressing the attendees, Chen Jinsong, a second-level inspector from the Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, highlighted how Jiangsu, one of China's leading provinces in economy, finance, and technology, boasts a wealth of cultural heritage shaped by its relationship with water - both living by it and thriving because of it.
Home to numerous natural and cultural heritage sites recognized by UNESCO, the province also features rich cultural traditions, including silk, lacquerware, Chinese embroidery, jasmine tea, classical gardens, and much more.
"Today, they embody the diverse and harmonious development of Jiangsu's charm," Chen said.
Li Liyan, minister counselor for cultural affairs at the Chinese embassy in the UK, speaks at the promotional event in London on Tuesday. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Li Liyan, minister counselor for cultural affairs at the Chinese embassy in the UK, echoed. He said Jiangsu, with its profound history, unique water town landscapes, deep-rooted heritages, and innovative integration of culture and tourism, offers a diverse array of experiences for global visitors.
Li also underscored China's commitment to further opening its doors to the world as the country's ongoing efforts to expand visa-friendly policies and enhance the convenience of its tourism facilities.
"Seeing is believing. Last year, more than 20 million inbound foreign trips were made visa-free, a remarkable 112 percent year-on-year increase," he said. "On social media, many travelers describe their experiences in China as 'unexpected' and 'beyond imagination'. I sincerely hope more British friends will include China in their traveling plans."
Mei Sim Lai, representative deputy lieutenant for the London Borough of Brent, speaks at the promotional event in London on Tuesday. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Mei Sim Lai, representative deputy lieutenant for the London Borough of Brent, reflected on her fond memories of traveling across Jiangsu and emphasized the importance of fostering cultural exchanges and mutual understanding between China and the UK.
"I have seen and I do believe that Jiangsu is a wonderful place in China to visit," she said.
With Chinese New Year, which falls on Jan 29 this year, just around the corner, speakers extended wishes for happiness and prosperity in the Year of the Snake and expressed hope that the festival - now a widely celebrated global occasion - would serve as a window for more people to learn about Jiangsu and China.
Spring Festival has officially been inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in December.
Attendees enjoy a captivating Chinese song performance during the promotional event held in London on Tuesday. [Photo provided to China Daily]
