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The World Canal Cities Organization and the city of Jiaxing in Zhejiang sign a cooperation agreement on Nov 14. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]

The World Canal Cities Organization (WCCO) and the city of Jiaxing in Zhejiang signed a cooperation agreement on Nov 14 to promote the development of Jiaxing's ancient city and ancient towns along the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, which are rich in culture and heritage.

The cooperation agreement aims to fully demonstrate Jiaxing's influence and reputation as a canal city and promote Jiaxing's canal culture and development.

The Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal runs through Jiaxing, extending more than 110 kilometers. The Jiaxing section of the canal accounts for more than one-tenth of the heritage waterway.

The canal has brought prosperity and glory to Jiaxing. Many ancient towns, scenic spots, and folk customs owe their existence to the canal.

Eighteen ancient towns in the city, such as Wuzhen and Xitang, were built by the water. Many important cultural figures and intangible cultural heritage items in the city also have close ties with the canal.

WCCO is a non-profit international organization formed by canal cities and related institutions from all over the world. It was established in 2009 and its secretariat is located in Yangzhou, Jiangsu province. It is committed to promoting economic and cultural exchange and cooperation among canal cities across the globe.