Gu Yan introduces how new technologies are improving the lives of people with disabilities. [Photo by Gu Biwei/Tide News]

East China's Zhejiang province recently showcased its advances in assistive technology and inclusive culture at the 19th session of the Conference of States Parties to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

As the only representative from a local Chinese disabled persons' federation to address the conference, Gu Yan, vice-chairperson of the Zhejiang Disabled Persons' Federation, highlighted how technologies such as intelligent bionic prosthetics, brain-computer interfaces and AI-powered visual assistance are improving the lives of people with disabilities.

In 2025 alone, Zhejiang provided more than 2,000 eligible recipients with intelligent bionic legs through a government- and enterprise-backed program.

During the conference, an exhibition drew wide attention from delegates and visitors, as it featured more than 200 creative works by Zhejiang artists with disabilities, including celadon, woodcarving, papercutting and paintings.

Several Zhejiang artworks were also displayed at a high-level event marking the second International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. Among them, the Dongyang woodcarving Endless Life was collected by an UN-related institution, recognizing the artistic achievements of its creator and Zhejiang's commitment to inclusion through culture and innovation.

Cultural products designed by people with disabilities in China. [Photo by Gu Biwei/Tide News]