The "2024-2025 Tourism and Cultural Capital of the SCO" Exchange Week, which coincides with the "International Friends@Qingdao" Event, kicked off in Shinan district, Qingdao on March 10.

During the opening ceremony, attendees were treated to a captivating showcase of the cultural and tourism treasures of Shinan and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) demonstration area. Six international guests were honored with the title of Qingdao Tourism Promotion Ambassadors, while international university students dazzled the audience with their vibrant song and dance performances.

The international students sing on stage. [Photo/WeChat account: Shinanly]

Following the ceremony, the visitors explored the international tourism commodity fair and the SCO-themed cultural exhibition.

"Harnessing intangible heritage to drive international cultural exchanges, highlighting its unique artistic value and traditional cultural essence, the 'International Friends@Qingdao' Event serves as an exceptional platform," said one inheritor of Qingdao's intangible cultural heritage. 

As China's pioneering "SCO Tourism and Culture Capital", Qingdao is advancing the development of the SCO demonstration area. The city continues to deepen its cultural and tourism exchanges and strengthen collaboration with the urban centers of SCO member nations, leading to remarkable outcomes.

This event features six key segments, including the opening ceremony, international tourism commodity fair, SCO-themed art salon, SCO member states' national costume parade, and more. These initiatives will comprehensively demonstrate the diversity of SCO culture and the urban allure of Qingdao, increasing cross-border cultural and tourism consumption.