As one of the highlights of the China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, Taishan Mountain Scenic Area in East China's Shandong province and South African National Parks (SANParks) signed a friendship and cooperation agreement on July 17 in Cape Town. It aims to strengthen cooperation between Taishan Mountain and Table Mountain.

The sunset glow glamours over Taishan Mountain in Tai'an, East China's Shandong province. [Photo/VCG]

Taishan Mountain, located in Tai'an, Shandong, was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 owing to its rich natural and historic resources. Table Mountain, managed by SANParks, is the key part of the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, which was made to the UNESCO World Heritage Site list in 2004.

China's Consul General in Cape Town Ren Faqiang said the twinning of the two mountains reflects the deepening friendship between the two countries, and that the consulate will continue to serve as a bridge for more exchanges and cooperation between Chinese localities and the Western Cape province.

The agreement outlines joint efforts in biodiversity protection, protected area management, sustainable tourism, environmental education, and climate adaptation, along with knowledge and expertise sharing.

Howard Hendricks, SANParks managing executive for conservation services, said the partnership demonstrates a common dedication to safeguarding natural heritage while advancing inclusive growth.

Zhang Ying, Party secretary-general of Tai'an, said the agreement will strengthen cooperation in tourism, heritage conservation, and cultural and economic exchanges between the two sides.