Under China's 2024-25 SCO presidency, Qingdao thrives as the tourism and cultural capital of SCO, fostering cultural exchange and tourism cooperation. [Photo/WeChat account: jzggwh]

The 22nd meeting of the SCO Ministers of Culture and a conference for tourism department leaders from SCO member states were held on July 7 in Qingdao, East China's Shandong province.

Under China's 2024-25 SCO presidency, Qingdao is thriving as the tourism and cultural capital of SCO, fostering cultural exchange and tourism cooperation. Artists from Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and other member states recently delivered a dazzling performance featuring pop, jazz, opera, and classical music, showcasing the power of cultural diversity.

After being designated at the 2024 SCO Astana Summit, Qingdao has launched initiatives like the SCO Summer festival, attracting 300,000 participants with over 100 cultural and tourism events. From "Kazakh Tourism Promotion Week" to the "International Friends @Qingdao" program, the city has deepened people-to-people ties.

During the event, Qingdao once again excelled in its role as the conference "host" while also inviting delegates to participate in cultural tours. Guests were treated to walks along classic routes such as Xiaoyushan and Badaguan, as well as the Viewing Qingdao from the Sea cultural tourism experience. These immersive activities allowed for deeper engagement with the city, unlocking greater potential for exchange through firsthand urban exploration.

The upcoming 34th Qingdao International Beer Festival will feature an SCO Week, leveraging the city's global IP to boost cultural and tourism influence. By transforming dialogue into action, Qingdao is proving itself as a bridge for SCO solidarity — where cultures meet and opportunities grow.