Jilin Province Shines in Hungary and Spain, Fostering Mutual Benefits

In a remarkable initiative, Jilin Province, located in northeastern China, is making waves in Hungary and Spain through a series of cultural exchange events aimed at strengthening ties and promoting tourism. This year marks two significant anniversaries: the 20th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Spain, as well as the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union.

Last week, a delegation from Jilin gathered in Madrid for a cultural promotion event showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the province, alongside other activities in Hungary. The events not only highlighted traditional arts but also facilitated agreements in cultural, tourism, and media sectors between the involved nations. The Chinese delegation's efforts underscore a commitment to enhancing understanding and mutual benefits through cultural dialogues.

Jilin, known as the cradle of China's automotive industry, aims to modernize its local industrial structure by leveraging its natural resources and robust industrial base to attract global investments and visitors. The province is distinguished by its historical significance in the automotive realm; it was home to China's first automotive workshop established in 1953. In the 1990s, Jilin started collaborating with Germany in the automotive sector, further broadening its industrial landscape.

A significant aspect of Jilin's economic landscape is its dynamic industrial structure, which encompasses 40 out of 41 industrial categories with 31 major categories in manufacturing. Notably, the Changchun Film Studio, with an 80-year history, stands as a testament to Jilin's cultural contributions, often referred to as the birthplace of the Chinese film industry.

Since the winter of 2023, Northeast China has witnessed a revival in its cultural and tourism markets. Jilin seeks to capitalize on this momentum, intensifying its efforts to foster tourism. The stunning Changbai Mountain, famed for its long winter and high-quality snow, consistently ranks among the world's top three skiing destinations, alongside the Alps and the Rocky Mountains.

Furthermore, from 37 B.C. to 668 A.D., Jilin was the capital of the ancient Goguryeo Kingdom, enriched by its UNESCO World Heritage Site. The province now showcases its cultural legacy through the G331 exhibition corridor, designed to protect and present its historical richness.

In a testament to the success of its tourism promotion, Jilin saw a remarkable 66% increase in visitors in 2024, alongside a 69% rise in overall revenue. Cross-border tourism surged by an astounding 161%, driving growth in related sectors such as gastronomy, accommodation, and entertainment.

As the province actively engages in promoting its cultural assets and tourist attractions, the future looks bright for Jilin's ambitions in forging sustainable international relationships and enhancing the global recognition of its unique heritage. The ongoing cultural exchanges serve as a platform for deeper collaboration and understanding, enriching the ties between Jilin and countries like Hungary and Spain, showcasing the province as a crucial player in global cultural diplomacy.