Good morning/afternoon, everyone. My name is Vaissya, and I'm from Qujing Normal University. The title of my speech today is 'The Source of the Nanpan: A Legacy for the Ages'. I shall now begin my presentation.

Today's I will introduce from the following four sections: a basic introduction to the Nanpan River, legends along the Nanpan River, its importance to the region, and Qujing's practical efforts in protecting and revitalising the river.

First, let us take a look at the Nanpan River itself. It is the source of the Pearl River and flows through the provinces of Yunnan, Guizhou and Guangxi, covering a total length of 914 kilometers and passing through magnificent karst landscapes. This region is home to ethnic groups such as the Buyi and Miao, and is rich in hydropower resources, ecotourism opportunities and scientific research potential.

Next, let us explore a legend set on the banks of the Nanpan River. According to the tale, a young Buyei man named Zhalang and a girl named Baimei fell in love on the banks of the Nanpan River. A local bully sought to abduct Baimei, and Zhalang was tragically killed whilst trying to save her. After avenging him, Baimei also passed away from grief. Later, the people established the Zhaba Song Festival to commemorate their faithful love. On the day of the festival, singing competitions are

held, and young people take the opportunity to socialize and make friends. They also prepare five-colored glutinous rice.

The third section discusses the importance of the Nanpan River, which primarily serves three key roles: a water resources hub, an energy lifeline, and a cultural bond for local communities.

As a water conservancy hub, it originates in the Maxiong Mountains of Yunnan, flows through three provinces, and connects the karst ecosystem with the Pearl River system, supporting water supply, irrigation, and ecological conservation. It is key to the stability of the water system in South China.

As a vital energy lifeline, the substantial drop in elevation and steady flow provide abundant hydropower resources. The Tianshengqiao Hydropower Complex is a major clean energy hub in south-west China, supplying electricity to the China Southern Power Grid and underpinning the 'West-to-East Power Transmission' initiative.

As a cultural link, it is the mother river of the Bouyi and Miao peoples. It is the birthplace of the Zhaba Song Festival, Bouyi mountain songs, and the legend of Zhalang and Baimei, and it embodies the ethnic group's collective memory and cultural identity.

Finally, let us turn to the Qujing Model. By capitalizing on our summer climate, with temperatures averaging 19.7°C, we are developing a 'cool economy', creating a premier summer retreat, fostering the integration of nature and culture, and strengthening the spiritual bond between the people of the Pearl River's source region and those further downstream.

Every drop of water originates from Mount Ma Xiong; every story flows along with the Nanpan River. It nurtures life, shapes civilization and connects the world. Yet the true protagonist is none other than this ever-flowing river itself.

Thank you for your listening!