Culture
19:58, 05-Sep-2017
UNESCO presents certificate for China’s newest world heritage site
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The Director General of UNESCO hand-delivered the certificate for the inclusion of Gulangyu Island in the organization's list of world heritage sites.
The document was presented to the municipal government of Xiamen, the location of this year's BRICS summit.
At the beautifully-landscaped Huangjia Garden, UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova presented the certificate to the mayor of Xiamen.
The document is hard proof of UNESCO's recognition of Gulangyu Island's merit as an historic international settlement.
In a speech, Bokova said the island is a modern continuation of China's ancient trade route, known as the Silk Road. She said the island's history as a melting pot for different cultures is in line with the goals of China's Belt and Road Initiative.
CFP Photo
CFP Photo
At the garden, Bokova viewed a photo exhibit on the five members of the BRICS bloc of countries. She praised China for its efforts to preserve world heritage through international cooperation.
In celebration of the presentation, residents of Gulangyu held an outdoor concert and had Bokova as their guest of honor.
Locals said the island's status as a world heritage site was an honor that comes with certain responsibilities.
CFP Photo
CFP Photo
Gulangyu, which also goes by the name Kulangsu, sits off the coast of China's southeastern Fujian Province.
It's the most popular district in the city of Xiamen. The two-square kilometer area boasts of beautiful beaches and stunning architecture.
Every year, the pedestrian-only island attracts millions of local and foreign tourists. The island used to be a home for European migrants. Their influence is still evident today in the area's rich architecture and the enduring love for classical music among locals.