Over 100 international representatives gathered in Heze, China, this week as the 34th International Peony Cultural Tourism Festival began with vibrant celebrations. The annual event, renowned for its spectacular floral displays, has evolved into a platform for fostering cross-border cooperation through art, trade, and cultural dialogue.
Ryu Chang-soo, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Qingdao, emphasized the festival's role in strengthening regional ties: "These blooming peonies remind us how shared appreciation for beauty can bridge cultures. South Korea sees immense potential in collaborating with China through such people-centered initiatives."
Guests from Kyrgyzstan highlighted joint infrastructure projects with Chinese partners, while Türkiye's delegates praised Heze's balancing of ecological preservation with economic growth. A representative from Thailand remarked that the festival's timing during peak peony blooms creates "an unforgettable stage for diplomatic engagement."
