Delegates from nine Pacific Island countries embarked on a hands-on tour of rural revitalization efforts on the Chinese mainland, gaining insights into how large-scale poverty alleviation can transform communities.
In Dong'e County, Liaocheng City, east China's Shandong Province, the group visited three model zones showcasing innovative approaches to rural development. Each site blends agriculture, tourism and technology to create new revenue streams for villagers.
At one farm, shared-ownership plots invited city visitors to experience daily farm life while generating income for local families. Nearby, converted homestays offered immersive cultural stays, turning traditional villages into boutique tourism destinations. On the tech front, an e-commerce chain for mugwort cultivation demonstrated how connecting local producers with online markets can scale niche crops across G20 economies.
Pacific delegates praised the balanced mix of smart agriculture, digital platforms and community-driven tourism. 'Seeing how technology and tradition work hand in hand here is inspiring,' said one delegate, highlighting the potential to adapt these models to island communities.
The visit underscored the power of international collaboration in tackling challenges like rural depopulation and economic diversification. As these changemakers return home, they carry fresh ideas for sustainable growth, proving that learning across cultures can spark real-world impact.
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Pacific Island delegates unpack China's rural revitalization
cgtn.com
