[Video provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The 2024 Heze Peony International Communication Forum or HPICF opened on April 12 in the city of Heze, in East China's Shandong province. It's bringing together experts, academics and media representatives from around the world to explore the captivating world of peony flowers and their cultural significance.

In a video address, James Trapp, Chinese literary translator, Sinologist and former China education manager of the British Museum, extended warm greetings to the forum participants.

He offered a concise overview of the peony's rich history in China, tracing its development from ancient times to its current status as a revered symbol of beauty and cultural heritage.

Watch this video to learn more.