The 8th Hangzhou Int'l Day highlights AI and culture exchange

On September 5, the 8th Hangzhou International Day kicked off under the theme “Hangzhou: A Paradise where AI Booms & Culture Blooms.” The event brought together representatives of diplomatic missions from 23 countries, leaders of seven international organizations, delegations from two sister cities of Hangzhou, guests from the Belt and Road Local Cooperation Committee (BRLC), and heads and representatives of Hong Kong and Macao institutions in Hangzhou. Here, they witnessed Hangzhou’s multifaceted achievements in technological innovation, international cooperation, and cultural exchange, injecting new momentum into the city’s global partnerships.

A paradise where AI booms

AI Hangzhou 2.0 released

At the opening ceremony, a series of international cooperation projects and city service initiatives were launched. Wang Jian, Director of the Zhijiang Lab and founder of Alibaba Cloud, delivered a keynote speech on building Hangzhou’s innovation ecosystem, exploring the source of the city’s vitality. The “Technology Transfer Genius Model 2.0,” China’s first large language model in the field of technology transfer, was officially released to accelerate the application of research outcomes.

The AI Hangzhou 2.0 was also unveiled. Building on its original version, the upgraded platform introduces 11 new application scenarios. These include a Tourism Service Package for short-term international visitors—covering SIM card purchases, fast hotel check-in, luggage delivery, the “Hangzhou Fun Pass” for cultural attractions, and instant tax refunds. A Convenience Pack for Living builds on existing services such as bill payments, social security contributions, and volunteer opportunities, while adding functions like customs services and certification for foreign livestreaming e-commerce professionals. An Easy Travel Pack integrates multiple mobility options—airport fast-track services, public bicycles, metro and bus networks, and intercity coaches. Users can also enjoy special city discounts such as deposit-free rentals and exclusive fare reductions.

Iceland’s Ambassador to China, Thórir Ibsen, praised the platform: “This is a wise move! Now, when overseas visitors come to China, language is no longer a barrier. Chinese friends are always hospitable, and integrating all these applications helps foreign guests join the local system of daily life. This Hangzhou initiative is something other Chinese cities should also adopt.”

In addition, the event awarded the “Join in Card” to Frédéric Genty, French Dean of ZFAI in Hangzhou, and Antonio Francesco Logrieco, Chief Scientist of Xianghu Laboratory (Zhejiang Provincial Agricultural Lab). The card integrates foreign work permit information into the social security card, enabling “one-card access” for work and daily services, and providing greater convenience for international talents living in Hangzhou.

A cultural symphony for global guests

City exchanges opening new paths for international cooperation

Damiano Tommasi, Mayor of Verona, Italy, shared his vision of strengthening ties with Hangzhou: “We are committed to positioning Verona as a protagonist in international dialogue, fostering exchanges across cultural and business sectors between our two cities. Through practical measures, we aim to enhance international dialogue, and I invite you all to Verona’s Arena to witness the 2026 Milan–Cortina Winter Olympics.”

The Hangzhou–Verona Exchange Exhibition Hall was inaugurated, symbolizing a new chapter of cultural exchanges between the two “Cities of Love.” Hangzhou also signed a letter of intent on friendship and cooperation with Serang City, Indonesia, while Zhejiang University City College and the University of Verona signed an education partnership agreement, paving the way for collaboration in trade and education.

As the Secretariat of the Belt and Road Local Cooperation Committee (BRLC), Hangzhou has long been committed to supporting win-win local partnerships. At the opening ceremony, five new members—Bassano del Grappa, Pieve di Soligo, and Gardone Riviera from Italy; North Minahasa Regency from Indonesia; and the Argentine-Chinese Cooperation Association—were officially welcomed. This raised BRLC’s total membership to 101, expanding the platform for Belt and Road local cooperation.

Shahafeez Shaharis, Consul General of Malaysia in Shanghai, is a first-time visitor to Hangzhou. “Here we meet many international friends. This is a remarkable event that connects Hangzhou with the rest of the world. As you know in today's world, the traditional international relations have been expanded. In the past maybe it's only between countries and countries, but now we see more and more international relations being led by city and city as well as even sub national or municipalities and I think this is a very healthy progression and we are happy to support as well.”

The Winland–Verona International Opera Festival staged a cultural feast. Conducted by Italian maestro Matteo Beltrami, the Zhejiang Symphony Orchestra and Zhejiang Choir performed alongside Italian soprano Maria Teresa Leva and Egyptian tenor Ragaa Eldin, presenting classic excerpts from Romeo and Juliet and Aida to both international guests and Hangzhou residents.

Source: Hangzhoufeel