"Welcome to Milan, the city of design," said Annamaria Tartaglia, CEO of Brand Sitter, a bespoke Milan-based factory dedicated to the strategic development of high-end brands in international markets, "We are proud of the friendship between the two cities, Milan and Shanghai."

"I have lived in China for 11 years and I was deeply attracted by the nature of beauty inside the city and the universities there," said Edoardo Nieri, founder of interior design and architecture office "Atelier Meadow" in Milan, expressing his warm welcome for the scenes of Shanghai to be moved to Milan.

Interactive activities, including postcard writing, stamp collecting and VR experiences, encouraged public engagement. Organizers described the event as more than a showcase, calling it a platform for cultural dialogue between China and Italy.

To extend the exchange, a "Garden of Light" themed installation will be recreated in Shanghai later this year, featuring messages and memories collected in Milan.