[Video provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The First Ocean Decade International Coastal Cities Conference kicked off in Qingdao West Coast New Area on Feb 26, with nearly 400 global experts in ocean-related fields gathering to discuss the development of coastal cities.

With the theme of "Better Ocean, Better City," this year's event aims to build bridges for cooperation and exchange among global ocean cities by fostering consensus, sharing experiences, and establishing partnerships. It provides an opportunity to promote sustainable development of oceans and cities.

Ashok Adiceam, French president's deputy special envoy for the United Nations Ocean Conference, spoke highly of Qingdao's efforts in developing the maritime economy. Click the video for more!