A delegation of mainstream media representatives from the city of St. Petersburg in Russia visited Shanghai's Jiading district on Sept 3, marking the first stop in a China tour.
The trip highlighted technological innovation, green energy and cultural exchanges.
Composed of journalists from wire service TASS, the St. Petersburg Vedomosti newspaper and St. Petersburg TV, the group explored Jiading's blend of science and culture. Their visit offered insights into how local innovation and heritage intersect in China's economic hubs.
At electric vehicles charging equipment manufacturer Shanghai Enneagon Energy Technology Co, delegation members donned safety helmets and toured workshops showcasing China's progress in green transportation.
From advanced battery systems to fast-charging devices, the technology reflected China's growing role in sustainable mobility.
At Shanghai Enneagon Energy, the delegation dons helmets and tours workshops showing China's progress in green transport. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh-jiading]
Kirill Igorevich Smirnov, head of the delegation and editor-in-chief of the Peterburgsky Dnevnik daily newspaper, was impressed to learn that electric heavy trucks reduced fuel operating costs by 50 percent.
He said St. Petersburg was also pursuing green energy and hoped more exchanges would help accelerate its adoption in Russia.
Beyond technology, the delegation also visited the Fuhu Village Party-Mass Service Center, Xuhang town and the Wojia Neighborhood Center, where they tried their hand at traditional crafts.
Master artisans taught them the techniques of Xuhang straw plaiting.
The visitors go to a community center in Xuhang town, where they learn traditional Xuhang straw plaiting and enjoy weaving coasters with the guidance of artisans. [Photo/WeChat ID: sh-jiading]
Tatiana Nikolaevna Barkovskaya, the editor-in-chief of the Northwest branch of wire service Interfax, proudly displayed her handwoven coaster.
She suggested that similar activities could be introduced at senior centers in St. Petersburg, calling it "meaningful and appealing for elderly people".
The St. Petersburg media delegation will stay in China until Sept 10, continuing their journey to experience the country's diverse innovations and traditions.