China's Ambassador to Italy, Li Ruiyu, and deputy governor of Fujian province, Zheng Xiaosong, visited Pingtan on Nov 23 with the aim of increasing their understanding of the island county's socio-economic development.

Li and Zheng were accompanied by senior Pingtan officials as they toured several of the county's major industrial projects, such as Haixia Ruyi town, TPK Holding Pingtan branch and the Pingtan Planning Museum. The visitors also went to the Pingtan-Taiwan Commodities Trade Fair and talked with businesspeople.

Li discussed Pingtan's progress since it was established as China's first pilot zone opening up to Taiwan, and said he was deeply impressed by what he had seen during his visit. He also praised Pingtan's ability to balance economic growth and environmental protection.

The ambassador also promised to help create ties between Pingtan and Italian enterprises, and he said he would promote the establishment of cooperation programs between Italy and Pingtan and also help the county attract Italian investment.

Edited by Chen Zhilin and Niva Whyman