On September 23, 2024, the Anhui Provincial Culture and Tourism Department made a significant stride in strengthening international ties by hosting a captivating cultural tourism promotion event in Istanbul, Turkey. Led by Deputy Director Wang Jing, the event attracted prominent Turkish dignitaries, including Murat Çebi, Chairman of the AK Parti Istanbul Provincial Committee; Bilginer Arslan, Head of Foreign Relations for the AK Parti Istanbul; Mr. Huseyin Gazi Cosan, Deputy Mayor of Istanbul for Culture and Tourism; and Eda Caglayan, Director of TGA Asia Region. Their presence served as a testament to the burgeoning interest in fostering cultural tourism collaborations between Anhui and Turkey.
The promotion event showcased the best of Anhui’s cultural and natural offerings. Directors Qin Guowei and Hao Peizhong delivered insightful presentations, illuminating the ecological treasures of Lu’an City and the historical significance of Shou County. Attendees were then treated to a captivating cultural experience with a traditional Huizhou tea ceremony, featuring the exquisite Huangshan Mao Feng tea. The event’s highlight, however, was the mesmerizing Huangmei Opera performance by actors Zhang Xiaowei and Wang Ying. They delivered a breathtaking excerpt from the classic opera “The Couple Returns Home,” captivating the audience with their exceptional talent and earning widespread applause. The performance demonstrated the universal appeal of Anhui’s cultural heritage.
Beyond Istanbul, Deputy Director Wang Jing and her delegation extended their visit to Antalya. Here, they met with representatives from the Antalya Tourism Bureau and the Antalya branch of the Turkish Tourism Association. These meetings aimed to deepen exchanges and cooperation between Anhui and Turkey, paving the way for future collaborations in the cultural and tourism sectors.
These efforts are part of Anhui’s broader strategy to elevate its international visibility and influence in the cultural tourism domain. By promoting its rich natural and cultural resources, Anhui is establishing itself as a key player in the global tourism landscape, attracting international visitors and fostering meaningful cultural exchanges. Through its active engagement in global tourism development, Anhui is poised to become a premier cultural tourism destination. Leveraging its historical, cultural, and ecological assets, Anhui not only increases its global presence but also strengthens its commitment to sustainable tourism and fostering deeper international cooperation.
The expanded outreach in Turkey underscores Anhui’s dedication to becoming a globally recognized cultural and tourism hub. This commitment contributes to the interconnectedness of world tourism markets, ensuring a brighter future for Anhui and its cultural legacy.