Dongying city – located in East China's Shandong province – and the city of Ifrane in Morocco in North Africa held an online video conference on Dec 19 to strengthen their ties in wetlands conservation.
Representatives from both cities discussed plans to launch joint awareness campaigns during World Wetlands Day and reached preliminary agreements.
During the meeting, the Living Planet Morocco – a non-government organization of the country – shared insights into Ifrane's wetlands and bird protection efforts, outlining its innovative conservation practices through a detailed presentation.
For its part, the Scientific Research Center of Dongying's Yellow River Delta National Nature Reserve introduced highlights of the city's International Birdwatching Season. Both sides exchanged ideas on sustainable utilization and protection of World Natural Heritage sites.
Xu Yan, deputy director of Dongying's Foreign Affairs Office, emphasized the shared identity of both cities as wetlands hubs and their common goals for ecological development.
She highlighted the potential for collaboration beyond wetlands, including cultural exchanges, tourism promotions and educational partnerships.
The Foreign Affairs Office says it will continue to leverage its Foreign Affairs+ initiative to foster international cooperation and support Dongying's high-quality development.
Located in the Atlas Mountains of northern Morocco, Ifrane is often called Morocco's "ecological capital" due to its rich natural resources and emphasis on conservation. Its economy focuses on tourism and pastoralism, with wetlands playing a significant role.
Ifrane also participated in Dongying's 2024 International Wetland Cities Mayors' Roundtable in October, further cementing their partnership.
The latest moves towards more collaboration highlights both cities' dedication to wetlands protection, while creating new opportunities for global cooperation in environmental and cultural fields.
