Beijing event celebrates the essential role of rural artisans

The International Exchange Recommendations for Rural Craftspeople, an event under this year's Chinese Farmers' Harvest Festival, was held in Beijing from Friday to Saturday to celebrate the essential role of rural artisans in driving village development and preserving cultural heritage.

Jiang Wensheng, vice-minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, said rural craftspeople are crucial in telling China's poverty alleviation story. "Their skills and cultural depth not only enhance local communities but also embody the image of farmers in the new era," Jiang said.

With over 130,000 rural artisans nationwide, their work supports more than 5 million jobs and spans 14 traditional crafts, including embroidery, dyeing, and ceramics, he said at the launch ceremony of the event.

Jiang called for the protection and integration of traditional crafts with modern technology and fashion. He encouraged international collaborations, artisans to engage in cross-border training and cultural exchanges to promote global understanding and harmony. He also highlighted the potential for craftspeople to contribute to global poverty reduction efforts through research and practical applications.

Ethiopia's Ambassador to China, Tefera Derbew Yimam, highlighted the importance of artisans in cultural identity and rural prosperity. Craftsmanship is a universal language, bridging cultural divides and fostering opportunities in employment and tourism, he said.

Raul Jonyer, a diplomat for Agriculture and Food Industry Affairs at the Hungarian embassy in Beijing, and his wife, Dora Mudrity, experienced traditional Chinese culture, such as the drum from Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, at the interactive zone during the event.

"It's impressive to experience the diverse Chinese culture firsthand… They are very different from our culture in Europe," Mudrity said.

Amelia Cobona, a diplomat from the Fiji embassy in Beijing, was captivated by the Nantong blue calico art at the event. She selected a piece featuring a horse pattern, symbolizing prosperity, in anticipation of the upcoming Year of the Horse.

Peall Blakelock from Samoa also participated in the event. On an agricultural training program in China, she said she sought to learn sustainable development practices of China to benefit her country.

With the theme Craftspeople Enrich Villages Sharing a Harmonious Future, the event attracted over 60 international guests, including ambassadors from 14 countries and representatives from the World Food Programme and the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. More than 100 rural artisans from 27 provinces showcased their skills and engaged with international attendees, according to the ministry.