Participants in a China-Benin training program for senior media professionals pose for a group photo in Yucun village. [Photo/WeChat account: anjifb]

Twenty-six participants in a China-Benin training program for senior media professionals visited Anji, Zhejiang province, from Sept 2 to 4 for a field study on local implementation of the concept of "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets."

Yucun village was a focus of the visit, where the members explored how ecological protection supports rural development. At the "Bamboo as a Substitute for Plastic" exhibition center, they learned about bamboo product development, applications, marketing, and industrial upgrading.

The group visited the "Deep Blue Plan" project in Meixi town, the cultural and creative complex for Anji White Tea in Xilong township, and the Lena Stone Valley International Stone Art Village in Baofu town to learn about abandoned mine restoration, the extension of the white tea industry chain, and the integration of art, cultural creativity, and rural tourism.

The participants also learned about local history and culture, experiencing traditional rubbing and bamboo-fan making at the Anji Ancient City National Archaeological Site Park and the former residence of Wu Changshuo, a contemporary master painter.

The members said Anji's experience serves as a reference for African developing countries pursuing rural and green development.