Taipei Mayor Hau Lung-bin headed for Italy Wednesday to attend the 53rd Venice Biennale, which has been an important arena for Taiwan to engage with the international arts community over the past 10-plus years. In addition to presiding over the opening of the Taiwan Hall at the Venice Biennale, Hau will also meet with Rome and Venice city officials to discuss the promotion of urban cultural industries and services. Hau said prior to his departure that his presence at the Taiwan Hall opening ceremony represents his support for Taiwanese artists who are displaying their artworks at the biennial exhibition in Venice. 'I also hope to learn from Italy's experience in the development of cultural and creative industries,' Hau added. Hau, who is heading a delegation of city officials and academics, is scheduled to return to Taipei June 10. 