The Global Mayors Dialogue and 9th Hangzhou International Sister City Mayors Conference kick off in Hangzhou on Sept 25. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]

The Global Mayors Dialogue and 9th Hangzhou International Sister City Mayors Conference kicked off in Hangzhou on Sept 25, co-hosted by the Hangzhou municipal government, the Zhejiang Provincial Government, and China Global Television Network.

Mayors and representatives from 24 cities across 15 countries attended the event, along with diplomats and local officials. The forum focused on urban governance and sustainable development, encouraging participants to share advanced experiences in urban management and showcase achievements in innovative governance, digital economy, environmental protection, and cultural heritage.

Before the dialogue, attendees enjoyed traditional Chinese cultural displays, including calligraphy and tea ceremonies. An Italian participant crafted his first Chinese name stamp, expressing his excitement about this new cultural connection. An Iranian guest also experienced Chinese calligraphy, writing the character for a friend, symbolizing the spirit of the forum and his good wishes for Hangzhou.

An international expert holds up his Chinese calligraphy work before the opening of the dialogue. [Photo/tidenews.com.cn]