2024 Heze Peony International Communication Forum successfully held in Heze, Shandong Province

HEZE, China, Apr. 15, 2024 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/–

The 2024 Heze Peony International Communication Forum was held in Heze, Shandong Province, on April 12, gathering experts and diplomats from around the world to discuss the international exchange of peony culture and the innovative development of the peony industry, according to the Information Office of the People’s Government of Heze.

Nie Yuanke, deputy party secretary of Heze, emphasized the significance of peony culture as an essential component of China’s rich traditional heritage. He expressed his hope that the forum would foster international dialogue on peony culture and encourage cultural exchanges and mutual learning.

The forum, which is held annually in Heze, plays a significant role in bringing the peony culture to the world, said Poornima Gunasekera, deputy chief of mission at the Embassy of Sri Lanka in China, during the forum.

As the “Peony Capital of China”, Heze boasts a 1,500-year history of peony cultivation and an impressive catalog of 1,308 peony varieties.

Peonies, celebrated as the “King of Flowers”, hold deep symbolism in Chinese culture, representing prosperity, honor, and beauty. The city’s elaborate peony culture is reflected in various industries, including Chinese medicine, food, and cosmetics.

Heze has been actively promoting its peony culture abroad by establishing peony gardens overseas and organizing promotional events. In 2023, the city sold over 3 million peony plants to more than 20 countries and regions, showcasing the global appeal of this iconic Chinese flower.