International delegates attending the 10th Hangzhou International Sister City Mayors Conference gathered at West Lake Scenic Area in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, on Nov 6 to take part in a tree-planting activity at Friendship Grove.

The tradition began in October 2008, when mayors and city representatives from five continents planted 32 weeping crabapple trees at the Santai Mengji scenic area to celebrate the friendship between Hangzhou and 31 international sister cities. The activity has since become a regular feature of the conference, and the original trees have grown into a flourishing grove.

Representatives from Hangzhou and its sister cities planted and watered new saplings together, renewing their commitment to lasting ties and environmental protection.

David Carter, former speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives, said the activity strengthened ties between people and cities while highlighting their shared responsibility for environmental protection and sustainable development. He hoped the cities would work together to contribute to global environmental protection.

The planting event carried forward this longstanding tradition and symbolized Hangzhou's commitment to deeper cooperation with its international partners. The city also hopes to promote exchanges on ecological development and build lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships.