During a recent visit to Suzhou, Dr. Naveed Ahmed, an associate researcher at the Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) in Changchun, expressed high appreciation for the city’s green development practices and its centuries‑old relationship with water.

At the Suzhou Industrial Park Circular Economy Industrial Park, Dr. Ahmed was impressed by the comprehensive waste collection and treatment system. “The park collects waste from multiple sources and processes it centrally, making full use of resources. This is a true model of green development,” he said.

Later, he toured the Pingjiang Historical and Cultural District, a well‑preserved canal neighbourhood that embodies the classic water‑town scenery of Jiangnan. Walking along the ancient street, Dr. Ahmed noted that Pingjiang Road vividly demonstrates the inseparable bond between people and water. “Looking back at human history, civilisations have always thrived alongside water. This ancient street, nestled by the canal, is a living proof of that relationship,” he observed.