Almost 90 years old, veteran Kao Bing-han returned to his hometown of Heze City in Shandong Province last year after decades away. Since 1991, Kao has dedicated himself to bringing back the ashes of deceased Chinese veterans to their birthplaces on the Chinese mainland. His unwavering commitment earned him the “Touching China” award in 2012.
Upon his return, Kao was astonished by the transformation of Heze’s peony industry. “I’m overwhelmed by these peony products,” he remarked. “There are flowers, seed oil, and even cosmetics made from peonies. This is definitely a promising industry. It deserves to be promoted and flourish.”
Heze’s relationship with peonies dates back over 1,500 years, cultivating not just a flower but a rich cultural heritage. The peony has become a symbol of prosperity and elegance in the region. Today, the industry has blossomed, with products ranging from medicinal oils to beauty products, captivating markets worldwide.
This flourishing industry takes center stage as the 2024 Heze Peony International Communication Forum (HPICF) opens on Friday. The forum aims to promote international exchange and cooperation, highlighting the peony’s significance in culture, economy, and international trade.
Business professionals, investors, and cultural enthusiasts are converging in Heze to explore opportunities within the peony industry. The HPICF serves as a platform for academics, researchers, and industry leaders to discuss the future of this ancient yet ever-evolving industry.
For Kao, the peony not only represents his hometown’s legacy but also its future. His story reflects the deep connections between people and their heritage, and how tradition can foster economic development in a globalized world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
