Members of the delegation pose for a selfie. [Photo/cnwomen.com.cn]

From Oct 15 to 18, 23 women political leaders from nine developing countries such as Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, and Ethiopia visited East China's Zhejiang province following the Global Women's Summit in Beijing, eager to observe China's progress in women's and children's development at the grassroots level.

The delegation attended the seminar for women politicians from developing countries. Zhejiang, one of only two field-study destinations selected nationwide, has long been a key site for such training programs. Since 2013, it has hosted 28 sessions for nearly 900 women officials from over 70 countries and regions.

During their trip, participants explored Zhejiang's leading practices in women's empowerment, digital inclusion, and rural vitalization.

At e-commerce giant Alibaba and its financial subsidiary Ant Group — in the provincial capital Hangzhou — they learned how digital technology supports women entrepreneurs through initiatives such as the Digital Mulan program, which offers digital literacy training and social insurance for women in underdeveloped areas.

They also joined a workshop with local craftswomen to experience traditional button-making and observed how the project helps women increase income close to home.

The group also visited Lingfeng Kindergarten and Yucun village in Anji county to observe child-friendly initiatives and sustainable development inspired by the green development philosophy.

Impressed by Zhejiang's innovative approach, participants expressed their intention to apply these lessons in their own countries. "Digital empowerment and community initiatives here have shown us what's possible when women are given opportunities to thrive," said an official from Egypt.

Members learn button-making from craftswomen at a workshop in Hangzhou. [Photo/cnwomen.com.cn]