March 23-28, 2026 | China – UCLG ASPAC First Youth Leaders China Tour 2026 successfully brought together 20 delegates from 8 countries— China, Philippines, Maldives, Kiribati, Indonesia, South Korea, Nepal, and Thailand—representing government, youth organisations, and professional sectors. The programme was co-hosted by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and supported by Jiangsu Province.
Through site visits, including Suzhou Industrial Park, as well as dialogues and high-level engagements across Taicang, Suzhou, Wuxi, and Yancheng, delegates exchanged perspectives on youth representation, economic development, and sustainability while gaining insights into China’s innovation ecosystem.
Participants appreciated the opportunity to build networks, deepen cultural understanding, and strengthen people-to-people diplomacy. The programme concluded with a shared commitment to continued collaboration and reinforced the important role of youth leadership in advancing sustainable development across the Asia-Pacific region.
UCLG ASPAC extends its sincere appreciation to all partners and hosts for their warm hospitality and strong collaboration.
Event Timeline
| 23 March Visit to Taicang’s Aviation and Aerospace Industry Exhibition Centre |
| Zhenghe Park: Introduction to the legacy of Zheng He, the renowned Ming Dynasty navigator |
| Suzhou Industrial Park: Industrial Innovation and High-Level Engagement The visit included an experience of the urban internationalisation along the Right Bank of Jinji Lake, showcasing integrated planning, economic growth, and global collaboration. |
| 24 March Suzhou: Official Launch at Nanjing University |
| 25 March Wuxi: Smart City Innovation and Youth Dialogue |
| Visit to Jingui Park and a Symbolic Tree Planting |
| Visit to Wuxi Urban Operation Management Centre |
| Wuxi Dialogue of the UCLG ASPAC Youth Leaders China Tour |
| Innovation in Practice: Visit to GoodWe, a global smart energy innovator |
| 26–27 March Visit to Wuxi Brain-Computer Science Innovation and Demonstration Centre and AgiBot Embodied Intelligence Experience Centre |
| A night tour across key landmarks, including Yancheng Water Street, Chuanchang River Eye, European-style Flower Street, and the city’s TV Tower |
| 27 March UCLG Asia-Pacific Youth Leaders Forum The dialogue sessions focused on two key themes: green development—including low-carbon initiatives, ecological protection, and renewable energy—and innovation-driven development, covering scientific advancement, industrial transformation, and entrepreneurship. Youth representatives from Yancheng and UCLG ASPAC member cities shared perspectives and experiences, highlighting the role of young leaders in shaping sustainable and resilient urban futures. |
| Visit to the Xifuhe Green Low-Carbon Science and Technology Innovation Park |
| 28 March Cultural Closing: Visit to Dafeng Tulip Flower Park and Tulip Cultural Tourism Festival |
