Unveiling of China Pavilion at World Travel Market London
At the China exhibition area of the 2023 World Travel Market in London, international exhibitors are pictured alongside Hanfu enthusiasts dressed in traditional Chinese clothing on Monday, November 6. [Photo Credit: H2O Studio]
In a showcase of cultural splendor, China introduced its "Nihao China" themed pavilion at the 2023 World Travel Market (WTM) in London. The event took place from November 6 to November 8, marking China's triumphant return to the global stage of major exhibitions since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2023 WTM London, established in 1980, is a prominent event in the travel and tourism industry, hosting around 4,000 exhibitors from over 180 countries and regions this year.
Delegations from Beijing, Shanghai, Shaanxi province in Northwest China, Hubei province in Central China, and Jiangxi province in East China presented renowned tourist attractions, cultural heritage features, and information related to travel, including details on tax refund policies.
The vibrant and culturally rich offerings brought to the UK by a delegation from East China's Jiangxi province took center stage at the 2023 World Travel Market in London on Monday, November 6. [Photo Credit: H2O Studio]
13 Chinese tourism companies and seven Chinese airlines showcased a diverse range of tourism services, encompassing travel packages, agency services, regular flight routes connecting China and Europe, and additional offerings.
Li Liyan, the Minister Counselor for Cultural Affairs at China's Embassy in the United Kingdom, addressed the audience during the opening ceremony of the China exhibition area on Monday, November 6, in London. [Photo Credit: H2O Studio]
Li Liyan, the Minister Counselor for Cultural Affairs at the Chinese Embassy in the United Kingdom, highlighted during the opening ceremony of the China exhibition area that China has implemented a set of policies aimed at accelerating the recovery of the tourism market.
Li stated, "In August of this year, China resumed group outbound tourism to multiple countries, such as the UK. Starting from Oct 23, the Chinese Embassy and Consulates in the UK have canceled online visa appointments, so that applicants can walk into the visa service centers to submit their applications. And from Nov 1, travelers will no longer be required to fill out the 'Health Declaration Form' for entry and exit."
He continued, "The global tourism market has rapidly regained its vitality as the pandemic has disappeared, China is also warmly welcoming the return of world tourists with open arms."
Gao Yang, Director-General of the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, delivered remarks at the opening ceremony of the China exhibition area on Monday, November 6, in London. [Photo Credit: H2O Studio]
Gao Yang, Director-General of the Shaanxi Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, highlighted that Shaanxi is at the forefront of embracing openness and collaboration. The 2023 WTM London offers Shaanxi the chance to advance development in collaboration with brother provinces domestically and share experiences with counterparts internationally.
Shaanxi, renowned as a significant cradle of the Chinese nation and civilization, boasts a rich history that has left an enduring cultural imprint. One of its iconic attractions is the legendary Terracotta Army, attracting a substantial number of international tourists.
Gao noted that in 2019, Shaanxi welcomed 190,000 British tourists, securing a prominent position nationally. Furthermore, in the first half of this year, the province experienced a rebound in domestic tourism, reaching levels comparable to those before the pandemic.
"We look forward to the continuous strengthening of people-to-people exchanges," expressed Gao.
Alastair Blackburn, Executive Chairman of the Silk Road Foundation, addressed the audience during the opening ceremony of the China exhibition area on Monday, November 6, in London. [Photo Credit: H2O Studio]
Alastair Blackburn, Executive Chairman of the Silk Road Foundation, a community interest company promoting Macclesfield, a town in the northwest of England, emphasized the transformative potential of travel, stating, "I always believe that travel is the best education you can find, educational exchanges can lead to understanding, then it is a simple path from understanding to trust, to cooperation, to peace, and so on. If we do not travel, our world, which is already unstable, will become more unstable because it is based mostly on ignorance."
The Executive Chairman, dedicated to enhancing comprehension between the East and the West, as well as fostering ties between China and the UK, expressed his encouragement for individuals to explore China.
He conveyed his personal experiences, stating, "I am fortunate to have visited there around 40 times. There is still much to see. I urge everyone to visit as frequently as possible because it is a stunning country with gracious, welcoming inhabitants and breathtaking landscapes."
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