The Pingtan Comprehensive Pilot Zone, Fujian province hosted a conference on April 20, in order to give ideas about the preparation for three upcoming international events, local media reported.

The government leaders urged local departments to work hard and carefully, to ensure the quality of the events.

The events are International Island Forum, Ocean Cup Pingtan-China International Cycling Open Race, and a marine leisure and sports expo. All are scheduled to be held in the month of June.

The cycling race has been held for two consecutive years in the zone. This year, it will kick off on June 26 and is planned to accept 2,000 participants.

The other two events would be organized for the first time. The Pingtan International Island Forum is slated to invite top scholars and experts from China and abroad to exchange experience in island development.

The marine leisure and sports expo will focus on water sports. It will consist of ten exhibition areas, featuring fishing, diving and sailing.

These events are considered as opportunities for the zone to turn its oceanic resources into a driving force for development and competitiveness, which will contribute to its goal of becoming an international tourist destination, said local officials.