During his stay in the city, Mr. Maio witnessed the signing of cooperative agreements between his country and Sichuan Province, attended the opening ceremony of the 17th Western China International Fair, as well as communicated face to face with representatives from Sichuan's companies.

"I am highly impressed by Chengdu. It shares a lot of similarities with many developed cities in Europe. I am looking forward to having more time to get to know this city," Mr. Maio shared his impression of Chengdu at an interview with the local media on the first day in the city. He expressed a hope to establish more business connections, expand the cooperation with Sichuan, and further the mutual communication and exchange in the cultural fields involving world cultural heritage and universities. "Last year, we set up a Sino-Italy cultural and innovative industry park in the Tianfu New Area, and I expect to have a detailed discussion on it."

During the two days, Mr. Maio visited the Sino-Ocean Taikoo Li, a top-end shopping complex, where the air is heavy with the sweet scent of the blooming osmanthus flowers and jasmine tea drifting from the open-air teahouse inside the Daci Monastery, which is next to the Taikoo Li. "After I return to Italy, I will recommend Chengdu to our people," he said.

"How many Italian brands are there in the shopping center?" "How about their business?" Mr. Maio showed a great interest in the number and operation of the Italian brands inside the mall.