A grand media project themed on the Yangtze River economic belt kicked off on July 20 in Lijiang City in China’s southwestern Yunnan Province. Over the next 20 days, more than 100 journalists will present the latest developments in culture, ecology and modernization from the 11 provinces along the river. /Photo via He Futian

Yunnan Province, located upstream of the river, was chosen as the start of the journey. During the launching ceremony, three local residents of Naxi ethnicity performed a chorus of “Ode to the Yangtze River,” conveying gratitude on behalf of the nation to the mother river. /Photo via He Futian

A written proposal for protecting the Yangtze River was also released during the ceremony, highlighting the connection between Chinese history and the river and appealing for sustainable development and a better future along its path. /Photo via He Futian

The Yangtze River, the third-longest river in the world, plays a significant role in China’s history, development and prosperity. /Photo via He Futian