From October 22 to 24, Luigi Febo, Chairman of the City Council of Chieti, Italy—one of Yancheng’s sister cities—visited Yancheng to enhance cooperation, deepen exchanges, and foster friendship. He was accompanied by Carlo D'Andrea, Vice President of the Abruzzo Association in China, Vice President of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, and Chairman of the Shanghai Chapter Board. Mayor Zhang Mingkang and Wang Rong, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Yancheng People’s Congress, met separately with the delegation. Deputy Mayor Tang Jing, Secretary-General of the Standing Committee Wang Ya, Secretary-General of the Municipal Government Xu Ningjian, and Director of the Foreign Affairs Office Chen Hua also attended relevant activities.

Mayor Zhang warmly welcomed the delegation, noting that as a crucial city in the Belt and Road Initiative, Yancheng is continuously enhancing its level of openness and international cooperation. Yancheng and Chieti have enjoyed a friendship of over 30 years, and Zhang expressed hope that this visit would deepen comprehensive cooperation in areas such as trade, food, and cultural exchange, advancing mutual development and benefits.

Wang Rong highlighted that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Italy. He underscored the longstanding friendship between Yancheng and Chieti and encouraged both cities to unlock further cooperation potential. Wang expressed hope that the two sides would expand practical exchanges across economic and cultural fields, enrich cooperative achievements, and build a lasting partnership toward a prosperous future.

Luigi Febo expressed his gratitude for Yancheng’s warm reception. He praised Yancheng’s vibrant development and the strong bond between the two cities, which was further strengthened by last year’s exchange visits. Febo looks forward to leveraging the unique strengths of both cities, strengthening interactions, and writing a new chapter in their friendly relations.