A Delegation headed by government officials from Dali was in south China’s Shenzhen City Wednesday to promote tourism and the Dali culture, kicking off a nation-wide promotional tour.

Recently awarded by CCTV as one of the 10 most amazing cities in China, Dali city in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture in southwest China's Yunnan Province is renowned for its history, multi-ethnic culture and picturesque scenery.

Selecting Shenzhen to start the national promotion, the Dali government prorposed a display at the International Cultural Industry Fair and closer links with Shenzhen, Hong Kong and Macao.

"We have explored many opportunities for cooperation with the government and companies in the tourist field in Shenzhen. We have signed contracts for six tourism projects with Shenzhen companies. These include a theme park in Dali and a five-star hotel. We are looking forward to direct flights between Shenzhen and Dali in the near future," said Huang Yonghua, head of the publicity department of the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture.

Dali city took the award for the "most amazing city" as a new opportunity for economic development.

"This is a great chance for Dali people and we treasure this award very much," said Yang Jianjun, vice mayor of Dali city.

"We will further enhance environmental protection in Dali and develop the economy to permanently retain the charm of the city. "We are confident that Dali is worthy of its title of a city that one must visit," Yang said.

(Shenzhen Daily November 18, 2004)