Zagreb and Shanghai honoured for 45 years of partnership: international recognition for cultural cooperation project
Project to mark 45 years Friendship between Zagreb and Shanghai he received significant international recognition. This award is Silver Dove Light – Outstanding International Communication Projects for 2025, which is awarded by the Shanghai municipal authorities for projects that contribute to international cooperation and cultural exchange.
The project was realised in collaboration with the Shanghai History Museum and was awarded in the category of international communication activities – an area that includes inter-city partnerships, cultural diplomacy, and destination promotion.
Focus on international visibility and cultural exchange
In a time when With destinations investing more in global promotion, projects like these gain additional weight.. Through this initiative, Zagreb presented itself to the Chinese market as a destination with a rich cultural heritage and authentic identity.
Martina Bienenfeld, Director of the Zagreb Tourist Board, emphasised the importance of continuous international partnerships in strengthening Zagreb's visibility, particularly in markets like China, which have growing tourism potential.
Interactive exhibition attracted great interest
The project was not only symbolic but also very concrete in its execution. Visitors in Shanghai could experience Zagreb through a series of interactive content.
Particular attention was drawn to the exhibits at the Museum of Illusions, as well as the installation of traditional gingerbread hearts placed in front of the museum. It was precisely this installation that became a popular attraction and a photo spot, remaining accessible to visitors even after the exhibition ended.
Strong international competition
This year's selection evaluated over 1,500 projects from various sectors – from tourism and culture to education and creative industries. A total of 202 projects received an award, which further confirms the importance and quality of the Zagreb-Shanghai initiative.
Although the award was formally given to the Chinese side, Croatian partners – including the Zagreb Tourist Board and the Croatian Tourist Board – were recognised as key stakeholders in the project's realisation.
For Croatian tourism, this is another confirmation that well-designed projects can have a global impact – and open doors to markets that are becoming increasingly important for future growth.
