Almeida is known for its fortress, which forms the most spectacular 17th-century fortress defense system in Europe with its dodecagonal shape. [Photo/WeChat account: gh_2dd9138e31e1]

A delegation from Longquan, a county-level city administered by Lishui city in East China's Zhejiang province, recently visited the Portuguese city of Almeida and signed a letter of intent to establish friendly city ties.

The two sides exchanged views on matters such as the application of intangible cultural heritage status, the protection of ancient cities, and the promotion of cultural and economic development. They also reached a consensus on strengthening exchanges and cooperation.

The delegation also invited the mayor of Almeida to Longquan to attend the World Celadon Conference, a global event that showcases traditional Chinese porcelain art.

Located in northern Portugal, Almeida is known for its spectacular 17th-century fortress defense system. Almeida Square is a candidate for the UNESCO World Heritage category.

Longquan, which has a history of more than 1,200 years, is famous for its celadon, a type of green-glazed porcelain. The traditional firing technique of Longquan celadon was inscribed in 2009 on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The two cities share a common vision of preserving and developing their historical and cultural heritage and hope to enhance mutual understanding and trust through high-level visits, cultural exchanges, and other means, so as to lay a solid foundation for the long-term and sustainable development of both sides.