Ancient trade route applies for World Heritage status

Authorities in Guangzhou, the capital of Guangdong province, are preparing to submit a bid for UNESCO World Heritage status for the ancient Maritime Silk Road, a local official said.

Lu Zhiqiang, director of the Guangzhou Culture, Radio, Television, News and Publication Bureau, said inclusion of the ancient maritime trade route in the world heritage list would greatly help increase its influence in the world's trade history.

"We are working with other cities to build a platform to facilitate governments, museums and cultural relic authorities to co-study and preserve cultural heritages related to the ancient trade route," Lu said.