Petra, Jordan – May 21, 2025 — In a landmark move to strengthen international cultural and tourism cooperation, the City of Petra in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Great Wall of China in Jiayuguan City, People’s Republic of China, have signed a cultural and tourism twinning agreement. The agreement aims to deepen collaboration in tourism, culture, economy, society, and joint marketing, reflecting the global significance of both destinations as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and two of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Fares Braizat, Chief Commissioner of Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority, and Zhao Shumin, Director of the Culture and Tourism Bureau of Jiayuguan Municipality. The signing ceremony was attended by Chinese Ambassador to Jordan, H.E. Chen Chuandong, Spanish Ambassador to Jordan, H.E. Miguel de Lucas, along with government officials and representatives of the local community in Petra.

Key components of the agreement include the exchange of cultural visits, the organization of joint conferences, and the development of collaborative programs in tourism, education, sports, investment, and mutual promotion of the two sites as top global destinations. The agreement also underscores the importance of supporting community initiatives and exchanging expertise in traditional industries and handicrafts, as well as organizing joint events and exhibitions to boost international visibility.

This twinning partnership reflects the growing relations between Jordan and China and establishes a foundation for long-term cooperation between two cities of profound historical and cultural heritage. It is expected to enhance local development and promote sustainable cultural exchange.

Dr. Braizat described the agreement as a strategic step towards strengthening international collaboration and fostering greater cultural and tourism openness. "This partnership embodies the shared commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich heritage represented by Petra and the Great Wall, both symbols of global human achievement,” he stated. "It also offers a real opportunity to elevate Petra’s visibility in the Chinese market and other key tourism-exporting regions.”

Zhao Shumin emphasized the agreement’s role in creating new avenues for cultural and tourism exchange, stating, "This partnership will contribute to enhancing the Great Wall’s status as a global tourist destination, while opening new channels for Petra to engage with Chinese tourists and investors.”

The Petra Authority continues its efforts to establish similar twinning agreements with other cities representing the New Seven Wonders of the World. Previous agreements have been signed with the Colosseum in Italy and the Alhambra and Generalife in Spain, all aimed at strengthening joint tourism marketing and expanding Petra’s global presence.

Renowned for its rock-carved architecture and recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders, Petra stands as a symbol of the ancient Nabataean civilization and a leading global tourist attraction. Similarly, Jiayuguan, home to the western section of the Great Wall, embodies the legacy of Chinese civilization and holds exceptional cultural and strategic significance.