On Sept 4, a Senegalese delegation visited the millennia-old Tuoshan Weir, a World Heritage Irrigation Structure, in Ningbo, East China's Zhejiang province. Tuoshan Weir was built over a thousand years ago in the Tang Dynasty. It's listed among China's four major ancient water conservancy projects. And it still functions effectively in irrigation, flood control and water supply to this day. The Senegalese guests were particularly interested in the weir's sophisticated design, which copes with tides, water fluctuations and rainfall caused by typhoons. That's because their country faces similar water hazard challenges. The delegation also inspected local rural development, discussed exchanges on urban-rural planning and fishery development, and recognized the replicable value of local development practices. They also got a chance to sample Huizhituan, a distinctive local intangible cultural heritage snack. 

AMY DIA, Member, National Assembly of Senegal: "On the international front, I believe China can build strong international relations with other countries – and why not with Senegal? We have many lakes and rivers. I believe that if we could have this type of weir, it would solve a lot of these problems. And all of this could be achieved within a framework of partnership between our two states."

FATOU SENE, Official, Senegalese Ministry of Culture, Handicrafts and Tourism: "Yes, just as you have done within the framework of this cooperation, you could invite women from Senegal to come and receive training. I believe we have specialists in fields such as urban planning, heritage conservation, and fisheries. These specialists could attend a dedicated seminar on these topics to learn how to replicate your successful model for our own heritage and resources. We need cooperation focused on river management for Senegal, as well as opportunities for our experts to visit here and see your practices firsthand."

DAI LILI, Ningbo Municipal Cultural Commissioner: "We will continue to invite international friends from diverse countries to visit Tuoshan Weir. We welcome global visitors to appreciate the charm of this World Heritage Irrigation Structure, taste local intangible cultural heritage delicacies, and discover the unique beauty of our countryside."