African scholars visit Cangxi, Sichuan province for study tour

GUANGYUAN, China, Nov. 12, 2026 — A report from chinadaily.com.cn

Cangxi county of Guangyuan city in Southwest China's Sichuan province had the honor of hosting an African delegation on Nov 4 as part of the 2026 Training Workshop for Think Tank Scholars from Horn of Africa countries, a program organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Sichuan Normal University.

An African delegation participating in the 2026 Training Workshop for Think Tank Scholars from the Horn of Africa countries visits Cangxi county, Sichuan province on Nov 4, learning about intangible cultural heritage preservation during the study tour. [Photo provided to cngy.gov.cn]

The delegation, comprising 12 think tank scholars and media representatives from Ethiopia, Kenya, Djibouti, Uganda, Somalia, and South Sudan, participated in a study tour in Cangxi designed to observe the county's development achievements and to learn about the local practices of rural revitalization, cultural heritage preservation, and industrial innovation.

Throughout the visit, the participants engaged with key projects focused on traditional Chinese medicine, intangible cultural heritage innovation, digital economy development, and ecological conservation. They gained insights into Cangxi's approaches to heritage protection, industrial upgrading, ecological conservation efforts and poverty alleviation achievements.

"This city is impressive; it has achieved a commendable level of modernization and is very beautiful!" said Mutinda Mutisya Kyule, director of the Center for China Studies at the University of Nairobi.

The participants said that Cangxi's model of integrating cultural heritage, ecological conservation, and distinctive industrial development is highly inspiring. They expressed a desire to return to their home countries with the insights gained from this visit. They aim to promote exchanges with China in the areas of cultural preservation and industrial development, enhancing the friendship between China and Africa while also strengthening public support for Sino-Africa cooperation.

This study tour helps establish a platform for Cangxi to showcase itself to countries in the Horn of Africa. Through the eyes of African think tank scholars and media representatives, Cangxi's distinctive industries, traditional culture and ecological strength were promoted to the outside world, effectively enhancing the county's international reputation and appeal.

SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn