City officials from around the world are now in Hangzhou to attend a series of events under the Global Mayors Dialog. The platform has been organized to provide opportunities for city-level discussions between different countries. Cao Chufeng sits down with one of the guests, Laura Fincato, the former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy and a representative of the Mayor of Venice. She shares her views on sustainable development and exchanges between China and Italy. 

CAO CHUFENG, CGTN Reporter "As someone who has worked both in the central Italian government, and on the Venice City Council, how important are city level discussions between different countries?"

LAURA FINCATO, Former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Representative of the Mayor of Venice "I believe that dialog with each other is crucial, especially at a time when the world faces many difficulties. Our Prime Minister Meloni signed a strategic agreement with the Chinese government, and our President came on a state visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. Both are significant political moves. I trust that my presence also demonstrates that good relationships can be built at the grassroots level."

CAO CHUFENG, CGTN Reporter "Venice and Hangzhou are both tourist cities with an abundance of water. Do you see any potential for deeper cooperation or communication in the sustainable management of water, or other areas of green development?"

LAURA FINCATO, Former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Representative of the Mayor of Venice "That's a great question. We share some common issues, such as water and tourism. Venice is a lagoon city that originated from a lagoon and relies on it, while Hangzhou's lakes and rivers provide water resources. For Venice, water issues also include climate change and rising sea levels, which are major concerns. Tourism also needs to be managed. Hangzhou has abundant water resources and many visitors, while Venice may face the problem of over-tourism. Ultimately, if cities are not protected, their survival will be a challenge."

CAO CHUFENG, CGTN Reporter "Venice and Hangzhou are also historically rich cities with unique cultural heritages. How have the two cities helped to contribute to cultural exchanges and cooperation in the tourism sector between China and Italy?"

LAURA FINCATO, Former Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of Italy, Representative of the Mayor of Venice "We share a common point: Marco Polo, a great traveler. This year, we are celebrating the 700th anniversary of this great Venetian's passing. While countries have changed significantly since then, issues faced by citizens remain, such as daily life, increasing traffic, pollution and environmental protection. I believe the ancient cultures of China and Italy can serve as a bridge for mutual understanding. According to Marco Polo's observations, China was once a great nation. Today, China is even greater and more important than in Marco Polo's time. In contrast, Italy and Venice remain small but rich in culture. Although our scales differ, the respect for culture is the same."