More than 130 experts, scholars and correspondents from over 30 countries and regions attended the forum which was co-hosted by the State Council Information Office and the Tibetan regional government.

 

The theme of this forum is “New Phase of Tibet’s Development—Innovative, Coordinated, Green, Open and Shared Development.”

 

Before the forum’s opening, experts visited the Potala Palace, monasteries and poverty relief pilot communities in Lhasa. The visit helped them get a better understanding of Tibet. 

Ken Duggan, Chairman of Ireland China Institute, said: "This is my first time to Tibet. I like Tibet's landscape and Tibetan buildings."

 

"Tibet located on the main route of the ‘One Belt and One Road’ is key to the overall success of this initiative. We should help boost infrastructural development and  work together to build international economic cooperation corridors. We should engage in extensive cooperation in education, science and technology, culture, tourism, health and environmental protection benefiting more people," he added.

 

Michael Harrold, Senior editor of China Central Television, said: "Tibet's landscape really shocked me. Tibetan monasteries are amazing."

 

"The challenge is to tap into the massive economic potential of booming tourism while, at the same time, ensuring that no harm is done to the very attractions people come to experience-- the uniquely spectacular scenery of pristine snow-covered mountains, clear lakes and un-spoilt grassland, and the spiritual and mystical appeal of the religious institutions in Lhasa and elsewhere. Local, family-run inns are a good example of how ordinary Tibetans can benefit from tourism, without the authorities having to commit to large-scale development projects. Ecotourism is very much a promising way forward," he added.

 

Helen Bentley, expert from the Overseas Department in Xinhua News Agency, said:"Tibet's landscape is very beautiful, and I love Thangka."

 

"This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Qinghai-Tibet railway. The challenging project, part of China's West Development Strategy, has played a significant role in accelerating social and economic development in Tibet. It facilitates the movement of people and resources. It is a main artery ensuring the flow of necessities into the far western region," she added.