Recently, the “Harmony Road, Rhythmic Journeys” all-media interview and cultural tourism promotion event of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) countries was successfully held in eight nations: Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, Belarus, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Iran, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan. A series of diverse and distinctive activities vividly showcased the urban charm and cultural appeal of Qingdao, China, generating enthusiastic responses.
The activities unfolded splendidly across nations. In Tajikistan, the event highlighted Qingdao’s achievements in politics, economy, culture, and tourism, specifically promoting its cuisine, tea, sailing, and Laoshan Scenic Area. China’s Ambassador to Tajikistan, the Director of the Political Department, and officials from Tajikistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Trade and Development, and Ministry of Culture attended. In Kazakhstan, the promotion took place at Kok Tobe Hilltop Square, one of Almaty’s most renowned landmarks. It attracted nearly 100 spectators. Notably, many young men and women actively inquired about Qingdao’s tourist attractions and food names featured in the videos after the event. Many also requested photos and exchanged WeChat contacts, temporarily transforming the venue into a Qingdao tourism consultation site.
The event in Minsk, Belarus featured remarks by the Minister-Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Belarus. A fun China-knowledge Q&A session energized the atmosphere, while Chinese-themed souvenirs awarded to correct responders deepened their impression and understanding of China. The Russia promotion incorporated experiential activities such as Chinese calligraphy and printmaking. This allowed attendees not only to view scenes of China and hear related knowledge, but also to personally experience the charm of Chinese culture while receiving souvenirs from the Q&A session.
The Kyrgyzstan event emphasized cultural exchange. Alongside showcasing China’s image and Qingdao’s charm, local teams were invited to perform Kyrgyz musical instruments, dances, and songs. In Tehran, Iran, university students from Shahid Beheshti University attended. After watching multiple Qingdao city promotional videos showcasing its beautiful natural scenery, modern bay-area metropolis, and unique cultural charm, students participated in the “Shandong Handicrafts · Qingdao Gifts” exhibition and experience session. They observed millennium-old Chinese intangible cultural heritage crafts and Qingdao-themed creative products. Interactive Q&A sessions sparked in-depth discussions on traditional Chinese culture, China-Iran cultural exchange, and studying in China. Questioning students received souvenirs, deepening their understanding of traditional Chinese culture and China’s modernization achievements.
In Punjab, Pakistan, the event gathered nearly 200 Chinese and Pakistani employees from the Haveli Power Plant operation project and management teams. Staff from both countries performed ethnic programs. The “Shandong Handicrafts · Qingdao Gifts” session featured Longshan Culture eggshell black pottery, high-speed train models representing China’s speed, traditional mother-of-pearl lacquerware, and various creative products, all warmly received by Pakistani friends. In Tashkent, Uzbekistan, the event collaborated with Qingdao Hisense HVAC Central Asia Branch and Capital Global University. It attracted experts, faculty, and students from China, the US, Italy, Turkey, and other regions. Promotional videos and brochures introduced Qingdao as the “2024-2025 SCO Tourism and Culture Capital,” highlighting the SCO Demonstration Zone. Intangible cultural heritage crafts and creative gifts showcased traditional Chinese culture and modern urban charm. Chinese businesses in Uzbekistan and graduates of local Confucius Institutes also participated. The event received unanimous recognition from attendees and students, adding brilliance to cultural exchange.
This eight-nation promotion series successfully built bridges for cultural exchange, vividly displayed the multifaceted charm of Qingdao and China, effectively enhanced understanding and interest in China among SCO nations’ citizens, and composed a splendid chapter for the “Harmony Road.”
