Foreign visitors explore rural vitalization in Yunnan villages

Foreign experts and officials recently visited Hebian and Manluanzhan villages in Xishuangbanna Dai autonomous prefecture, Yunnan province, to explore the region's rural vitalization efforts.

Do-Hyun Han, a professor of sociology at the Academy of Korean Studies in South Korea, expressed surprise at the well-balanced development in the villages, highlighting advancements in culture, infrastructure, and income.

"There are guesthouse businesses and other cash-generating projects, along with excellent conference facilities," Han said. "I couldn't believe this could happen in a remote village."

Han was among the experts and officials attending the High-level Academic Dialogue on Global Rural Transformation, hosted by China Agricultural University from Sept 20 to 23. The event included field studies in Manluanzhan and Hebian.

V. K. Ramachandran, former vice-chairperson of the Kerala State Planning Board in India, described the villages' efforts, planning, execution, and vision as highly commendable and excellent. He added that Yunnan is a wonderful part of China to visit due to its biodiversity, diverse ethnic groups, and bold new experiments in economic and social development.