The "Gifts from Beijing" Central and Eastern Europe tourism promotion event, hosted by the Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development, was held on August 14, 17, and 19 at the Palace Hotel in Warsaw, Poland; the Arkády Pankrác Shopping Centre in Prague, Czech Republic; and Freedom Square in downtown Budapest, Hungary, respectively. Through various formats such as promotional videos, distribution of materials in local languages, traditional folk performances, exhibitions of distinctive "Beijing Gifts" tourism souvenirs, and interactive games and lucky draws for tourists, the event promoted China’s profound culture and the rich tourism resources of Beijing to countries in Central and Eastern Europe. The "Gifts from Beijing" promotion event achieved remarkable results and received an enthusiastic response from local residents as well as the Chinese diaspora.
In the Polish capital Warsaw, the "Gifts from Beijing" tourism promotion event was held at the Palace Hotel in the city center. A captivating speech by Mr. Cezary Kopczynski, Director of Tourism Affairs at the Warsaw Chamber of Commerce, deeply moved the attendees. He described his impression of China as follows: "I have been to China twice. The endless delicious cuisine, diverse and rich culture, hospitable people, and colorful tourism environment in China deeply attracted me. As soon as I returned, I told my friends and colleagues: you must visit Beijing, you must explore more of China—I have fallen in love with this country." For the countries in Central and Eastern Europe, this event not only promoted the friendly image of Beijing tourism and the special sentiment of Beijing Gifts, but also strengthened cultural cooperation and exchanges between the two sides.
Zhao Guangchao, a member of the Beijing Municipal Commission of Tourism Development, also introduced to the attendees at the three tourism promotion events the policies on tax refund for overseas travelers' purchases upon departure and transit visa exemption. The implementation of these two policies marks that Beijing's tourism services are not only aligning with international standards, but are also effectively enhancing Beijing’s competitiveness and appeal as an international tourism destination. In his speech, Commissioner Zhao stated that Beijing is willing to work together with Warsaw, Prague, and Budapest—each of which bears the responsibility of being a national cultural capital—to make positive contributions to tourism cooperation between China and Central and Eastern European countries.
It is reported that since its establishment in 2011, the "Beijing Gifts" brand has actively implemented the brand upgrade plan of creating a "city brand and national famous brand," vigorously promoting brand development and enhancement, and is now entering a phase of brand growth and innovation. Currently, "Beijing Gifts" has basically formed a product category system centered around distinctive Beijing arts and crafts, tourism souvenirs, urban industrial and tech creative products, and local specialty products, with over 2,000 certified items. "Beijing Gifts" carries and inherits the culture of the capital, the imperial city, and folk traditions, representing the exquisite craftsmanship, superior quality, and rich culture originating from Beijing. It has become an important international calling card for promoting Beijing and Beijing tourism.