Israeli consulate looks to grow tourism, agricultural ties with 'seed challenge'
On Wednesday, the Consulate General of Israel in Shanghai handed out 1,000 seeds to local residents, who can send selfies with their growing plants to the office's WeChat or Weibo accounts for a chance to win five free 10-year travel visas to the country.
"As the pandemic is moderating, we continue to welcome Chinese tourists,” Yossi Ben-Shitrit, a senior consultant to the consul general, said as he handed out the seeds from Israel.
The country is known for its innovative agricultural technology, an area where it sees growing potential for collaborations with China. Seeds for the "Israel Seed Challenge" are sponsored by Jewish National Fund KKL-JNF, and include some of the the country's specialty plants, such as marigolds and lavender.
Israel has been receiving more Chinese tourists in recent years, who usually need to complete a special form when applying for a 10-year visa.
The event, hosted at Xintiandi, attracted many to stop by and check out the challenge.
Limor Ganon (right), an Israeli consul in Shanghai, introduces the "Israel Seed Challenge" to local residents.
