Jewelry box design helps to shape country's future

Hou Zhanying is new to the National People's Congress, as it is her first time attending such a high-level political event. But when it comes to designing national presents, she is an old hand.

Her product, a jewelry box made with traditional crafts, was one of the national gifts given to foreign guests at the Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing in May.

National gifts are diplomatic formalities in international affairs. "Designing such a gift is a challenge, as it is the combination of traditions and fashion. And now it should be useful," said Hou, 35, an NPC deputy from Beijing Orafi Jewelry, part of Beijing Gongmei Group, an enterprise that designs traditional crafts.