“I’ve been to many places in China, but none of them are like Lijiang. It not only has beautiful scenery, but also boasts the unique culture of the Naxi people. I’ll tell my colleagues about its beauty.” From July 27th to 29th, more than 40 diplomats and staff members from the United Nations came to Lijiang City in Yunnan Province and participated in the UN China Study Programme 2018.
During the three-day event, the officials experienced Naxi Dongba culture, surveyed the development of the local tourism industry and witnessed ecological protection efforts in places such as Lijiang Ancient Town, Sanshui Ancient Village, the Tea-Horse Road and Yulong Snow Mountain. They were greatly impressed by the beautiful environment, cities and villages.
When asked about her impressions of Lijiang, a UN official could not conceal her excitement. “My heart is in Lijiang!” she said.
Over recent years, according to Cui Maohu, Party Secretary of the Lijiang Municipal Committee, Lijiang and the United Nations have maintained close ties and friendly exchanges. With the support of UNESCO, Lijiang has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site, a World Natural Heritage Site and a World Memory Heritage Site. These honours have expanded development opportunities for the city’s tourism industry.
“Lijiang is so beautiful. Three days are far from enough. Here scenes change with every step I take. I’m really fascinated,” said Dr. He Yong, who is in charge of the UN China Study Programme. Before the first day came to an end, he told many members that he would come back someday.
In Lijiang Ancient Town, a UN representative from Egypt exclaimed, “Lijiang is simply a paradise.” Before the tablet of Three Character Primer, the representatives imitated the figures in the sculptures and posed for photos. They chatted in high spirits with local reception personnel in both Chinese and English along the way.
“This is the fifth time I have been in China, the second time I have come to Yunnan, and the first time I have visited Lijiang. I love the scenery, culture, food and weather here. I’m grateful for what the local government has done. I hope to come back soon,” said Mr. Akram. He is an official at the UN Department of the General Assembly and Conference Management. He hopes that more foreigners will learn about the culture of the Naxi people.