CRNTT:

Gansu boasts rich cultural and tourism resources, with places like the Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang and the Jiayuguan section of the Great Wall being popular destinations for tourists. Since March, Tianshui malatang, a numbing-spicy hotpot, has taken the country by storm, resulting in the continued popularity of Gansu's cultural and tourism sector. Looking ahead, what aspects will Gansu focus on to promote the high-quality development of this sector? Thank you.

Ren Zhenhe:

Thank you. This is a very good question, and you have highlighted one of the most popular sectors in Gansu nowadays. My colleague Mr. Zhang will answer this question.

Zhang Jingang:

Thank you for your interest in Gansu's cultural and tourism sector. This year, Tianshui malatang became extremely popular and attracted nationwide attention. It is fair to say that the appeal of malatang starts with its flavor, and it is inspired by Gansu's beautiful scenery and shaped by the local culture. The cuisine is a microcosm of Gansu's unique food culture.

Here, I would like to describe Gansu using two common phrases. The first phrase is: "Throughout 5,000 years of history, Gansu is exceptional." Gansu is an important birthplace of the Chinese nation and civilization. In Gansu, you can explore the origins of civilization through such legendary stories as Fuxi creating the heaven by drawing the first line of the Qian trigram, Zhang Qian exploring the Western Regions, and Zhuge Liang's six campaigns from Mount Qishan. You can also experience its cultural richness by delving into the profound Dunhuang culture, enjoying the beautiful and engaging "Flower Rains Along the Silk Road" dance drama, and reading the enlightening Duzhe magazine. The second phrase is: "Spanning 3,000 li from east to west, Gansu is extraordinary." Characterized by its long and narrow terrain, Gansu spans more than 1,600 kilometers from east to west. It boasts all types of landforms except oceans, islands and reefs. It is said that four-fifths of China's scenery can be seen here in Gansu.

Looking ahead, we will make continuous efforts in three aspects to build our resource-rich province into one strong in culture and tourism.

First, we will make full use of its cultural and tourism resources. Gansu ranks fifth in the country in terms of richness of culture resources and is home to seven UNESCO World Cultural Heritage sites. We insist on employing the most advanced development methods to develop our world-class cultural and tourism resources, and profoundly explore their connotations and values of the times. For example, the "Digital Dunhuang" website that we are promoting aims to extend the reach of the cultural heritage beyond its original physical location, thereby allowing more tourists to experience the unique charm of the cultural relics and heritage left by our ancestors.

Second, we will further diversify business forms. Gansu has made significant efforts in this regard. For example, Kongtong Mountain in Pingliang, renowned as the most sacred Taoist mountain in China, not only serves as a scenic spot, but also as a resort for leisure activities and health care services. In recent years, it has developed many business forms under the "culture and tourism plus" framework. We will continue to deepen the integrated development of the cultural and tourism sectors, keep innovating business forms related to tourism, and attract more people to visit Gansu to experience its diverse and high-quality tourism offerings.

Third, we will work to boost consumption. During this year's Spring Festival holiday, Guazhou, Yumen and other areas were unexpectedly hit by snow and sandstorms, leaving many tourists stranded. However, they found solace and comfort in the local community, and the hospitality of Guazhou people attracted significant attention online. Gansu people are known for their simplicity, honesty, warmth and hospitality, and always offer the best to their guests. We must cultivate and pass on these qualities, making Gansu's cultural and tourism industry more vibrant and welcoming, so visitors can come with high expectations and leave satisfied.

In a few days, Gansu will host the annual China Public Fuxi Memorial Ceremony. Moreover, in the second half of the year, we will hold the Silk Road (Dunhuang) International Cultural Expo. We warmly welcome friends from across the country to visit Gansu. Begin your journey with a bowl of Tianshui malatang and savor authentic Lanzhou beef noodles, and experience the rich and diverse flavors of Gansu. Thank you.