Cultural Tourism Empowerment Delegates Commend China, Pledge to Champion Rural Revitalization Model at Home
Delegates from seven Belt and Road countries have commended the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration for the successful organization of the Seminar on Cultural Tourism Empowerment for Rural Revitalization in Belt and Road Countries held from June 24 – July 9, 2026 in Beijing, China.
In a Letter of Appreciation signed by Mr. Abdulkarim Ozi Ibrahim, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), and the Representative of the Delegates and participants from *Nigeria, Cape Verde, Kenya, The Gambia, Romania, Egypt, and Portugal* described the programme as “exceptionally enriching” and a unique platform for learning, collaboration, cultural exchange, and strengthening international friendships.
The delegates noted that the well-designed curriculum provided valuable knowledge and practical insights into cultural tourism, rural revitalization, sustainable development, heritage preservation, digital innovation, infrastructure development, and community participation.
The delegates further acknowledged the dedication of instructors and facilitators — *Vis Helen, Eden, Morri, and Murf* — for their professionalism, patience, and unwavering support. They also extended gratitude to distinguished lecturers including *Wang Zhixian, Miao Bin, Zhang Xiaojun, Sun Jiwen, Professor Shi Meiyu, Professor Wu Liyun, Ma Feng, Zhang Xiaoli, Liang Wenbin, and Zhang Xue* for sharing China’s remarkable achievements and experiences.
Special commendation was also given to interpreters for ensuring effective communication throughout the seminar, making lectures, discussions, and field visits engaging and accessible.
The delegates noted with appreciation that the entire programme was fully sponsored by the Academy, which enabled participants to focus on learning, networking, and cultural exchange without financial burden.
The seminar according to the delegates has strengthened international cooperation and mutual understanding among participating nations and equipped delegates with practical strategies for harnessing cultural tourism as a catalyst for rural revitalization, economic growth, job creation, and sustainable development.
The delegates further expressed confidence that lessons learned will have a lasting impact on policy formulation and implementation in their respective countries.
The delegates also commended the Government of China for its visionary commitment to international cooperation and capacity building, and for recognizing culture and tourism as powerful drivers of economic growth, poverty reduction, and international friendship.
In a statement by Amadi Uloma, Head of Press and Public Relations, FMACTCE, the delegates described China’s decision to fully sponsor participants from Belt and Road partner countries as a reflection of its commitment to shared prosperity and common development.
“We return home not only as beneficiaries of this programme but also as ambassadors committed to promoting stronger cultural and tourism cooperation between our nations,” the letter stated. “We shall gladly recommend many of these policies and best practices to our respective governments for adaptation to strengthen tourism development and improve the livelihoods of our people.”
The delegates further emphasized that cultural exchange should be reciprocal and warmly invited the people of China to visit their countries to experience rich cultural heritage, unique traditions, and tourist attractions.
They concluded by praying for the continued success of the Central Academy of Culture and Tourism Administration in promoting international collaboration and capacity building across Belt and Road countries and beyond.
