The 2017 Annual Conference for the Conservation and Development of World Natural Heritage Sites in China and Symposium of the 30th Anniversary of China's First Inclusion on the World Heritage List were held in Tai'an, East China's Shandong province from Dec 11 to 12.

More than 400 heritage experts, specialists and representatives from world heritage sites gathered at the event to share their experiences in conservation and development of world heritage sites.

The 2017 Annual Conference for the Conservation and Development of World Natural Heritage Sites in China and Symposium of the 30th Anniversary of China's First Inclusion on the World Heritage List are held in Tai'an, East China's Shandong province from Dec 11 to 12. [Photo/qi1d.com]

This year marks the 30th anniversary of China's first inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Since 1987, when six Chinese sites were recognized as world heritage sites, China has had 52 world heritage sites listed by UNESCO, only second to Italy, which has 53 on the list.

Several issues were discussed during the symposium including the development strategy of China's world natural heritage, how to improve the world heritage management effectiveness and capacity-building of world heritage management.

"The world natural heritage is precious treasure of mankind. We will all benefit from it if we give it due care for conservation and preservation, otherwise we will be condemned by history," said Xie Ninggao, a professor from Peking University.

According to Peter Ogden, general secretary and director of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural Wales (CPRW), Mount Tai, as a World Natural and Cultural Heritage, should emphasize environmental management, integrated planning and management effectiveness in its daily operation and management.

The CPRW is a charity in Wales that aims to secure the protection and enhancement of the country's landscapes and environment.

"The conservation and development of world natural and cultural heritage sites should be integrated with local customs," said G. Enkhbat, director of the Mongolian cultural heritage center, "Mount Tai can use its influence to help develop its surrounding areas and explore more natural and cultural heritage sites."