A team of journalists visited Binzhou, Shandong province on July 11 to explore the city's achievements in promoting foreign exchanges and cooperation as part of a series of activities to welcome the 20th CPC National Congress.

They visited Sun Tzu Art of War City in Huimin county, Binzhou Yatai Art Power Parts Co, a Sino-Japanese joint venture in the city, and the Yuyue Home Textile Exhibition Center.

The Sun Tzu Art of War City in Huimin county, Binzhou [Photo/Shandong Business Daily]

"Huimin county is the hometown of ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu, whose military culture has had an important impact on the world," said Wang Hao, general manager of Sun Tzu Culture Tourism Development Co.

The "Hometown of Sun Tzu" has become the most influential nickname for Binzhou, according to Wang, who added that the city has hosted a series of Sun Tzu cultural and tourism activities to increase the city's international profile as well as strengthen foreign exchanges and cooperation.

Employees monitor machinery at Binzhou Yatai Art Power Parts Co. [Photo/Shandong Business Daily]

The Japanese manager of Binzhou Yatai Art Power Parts Co praised Binzhou's efforts to create a sound business environment and a livable and beautiful city, as well as the favorable working and living conditions for foreigners.

Three independent brands created by Yuyue Home Textile Co have become the three leading brands in the African batik clothing market, which occupy 70 percent of the high-end market.

"Our company has a close relationship with the foreign affairs offices at municipal and provincial levels," said Li Xue, director of the Yuyue Home Textile Exhibition Center.

According to Li, local foreign affairs offices have created a sound communication platform for companies to expand in international markets and seek foreign cooperation.

A Yuyue Home Textile Exhibition Center employee displays batik fabric. [Photo/Shandong Business Daily]