The 2025 General Assembly of the RCEP World Heritage Cooperation Alliance (RCEP-WHCA) commenced in Huangshan, Anhui Province, marking a milestone in cross-border efforts to preserve cultural and natural treasures across Asia-Pacific. Representatives from China, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, and Vietnam spearheaded the alliance, which aims to foster knowledge exchange and sustainable tourism models among RCEP member states.
Peter Semone, Chair of the Pacific Asia Travel Association, highlighted the alliance's role in bridging disciplines and borders: "Together, we can ensure Asia-Pacific's wonders continue to inspire and sustain future generations." RCEP countries host 178 UNESCO World Heritage sites, positioning the region as a hub for civilizational dialogue and economic growth through heritage conservation.
The event advanced the Huangshan Initiative, a framework for international collaboration in heritage protection and tourism development. Key agreements were signed between Huangshan and Vietnam's Ha Long Bay, Sichuan's Huanglong Scenic Area, and Malaysia's Historic City of Malacca, focusing on technology sharing and joint promotion. Memorandums of Understanding with global bodies like the Global Sustainable Tourism Council further solidified partnerships.
Over 180 delegates from 15 RCEP members, including Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea, attended. Ding Chun, Secretary of the CPC Huangshan Municipal Committee, and Mayor He Yi emphasized the city's commitment to leveraging heritage as a driver of regional connectivity and cultural diplomacy.
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New alliance to keep world heritage cities pulsing with new exchanges
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