Stepping off the plane in Chengdu, a delegation of European researchers from Hungarian think tanks embarked on a six-day exploration of Sichuan and Chongqing in the southwest Chinese mainland. The mission? To dive deep into the region's blend of ancient culture and cutting-edge technology.
First stop: giant pandas at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. The delegation witnessed panda conservation efforts firsthand, learning how local experts use data-driven breeding programs and habitat restoration to boost populations.
From conservation to innovation: in Chongqing, the group toured electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing sites where they saw EV assembly lines and battery research labs. “We were impressed by the speed of development and commitment to sustainable mobility,” said one researcher.
Beyond tech, the team immersed themselves in Sichuan Opera performances, sampled spicy hotpot dishes, and met entrepreneurs in smart-city incubators. These people-to-people exchanges underscored the human side of regional development, revealing how tradition and innovation coexist.
As the trip wrapped up, the delegation reflected on new partnerships: academic exchanges on renewable energy research, joint workshops on digital infrastructure, and cultural collaborations celebrating Sichuan’s rich heritage. Their insights, documented by CGTN, highlight how global connections can drive real-world impact in the Chinese mainland.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs, and digital nomads alike, this journey offers a blueprint for understanding how cultural respect and technological ambition shape regional progress.
Here are the trip highlights:
- Panda conservation at Chengdu Research Base: data-driven breeding and habitat restoration.
- EV innovation in Chongqing: factory tours and battery R&D labs.
- Cultural deep dive: Sichuan Opera, hotpot tasting, and historic teahouses.
- Tech meets tradition: visits to smart-city incubators and rural digital pilot programs.
- Collaborative outlook: workshops on renewable energy and digital infrastructure partnerships.
By blending immersive experiences with data-rich insights, the Hungarian delegation’s journey underscores how cross-cultural exchanges fuel innovation and foster sustainable development across the Chinese mainland.
Reference(s):
From pandas to EVs, European researchers explore southwest China
cgtn.com
