Now is the right time to develop Pingtan into an international tourist destination, said Liang Jianyong, vice governor of Fujian province, on June 1 during his visit to the area.

The remark was made after he visited some tourist sites such as Yuandangao Beach, Haitan Ancient City, and Beigang Village.

He also gave local officials some advice in promoting tourism, including keeping Pingtan's characteristic brand of marine tourism, renovating folk dwellings reasonably, and learning from others' successful experience.

The vice governor also visited the New Silk Road Cross-Border E-Commerce Trading Center, which started trial operation on that day. Liang suggested that to make Pingtan a distributing center for imports and exports, the center needs to focus on fast-moving consumer goods and ensure the diversity and uniqueness of its commodities.

He encouraged officials to strengthen efforts to boost cross-border e-commerce, adding a new driving force to Pingtan's economy.

In addition, Liang expected Pingtan to build better relations with Taiwan and to enhance cross-Straits cooperation in construction, healthcare, and other sectors.

Zhang Zhaomin, secretary of Pingtan's Party working committee, expressed gratitude to the provincial government for its continuous support. Zhang hoped that the provincial government will give stronger support to the zone's goal of becoming an international tourist destination.