Meeting boosts more global exchanges

Video by Han Shuang

Representatives from the member organizations of the Shenzhen People’s Association for Friendship With Foreign Countries on Friday convened at the Shenzhen International Biovalley Baguang Exhibition Hall in Dapeng New Area for the association’s annual meeting.

The gathering was an opportunity for representatives to forge and strengthen personal connections, while exchanging ideas in accelerating international exchanges and cooperation.

“As an important window for the world to comprehend China’s practical actions on reform and opening up, Shenzhen should take the responsibilities to actively engage in international exchanges and cooperation, paving the way for China’s global relations,” Cao Saixian, president of the association, said.

During her keynote speech, Cao offered a comprehensive overview of the association’s endeavors in promoting international exchanges and cooperation throughout 2023. She highlighted the association’s contributions across various fields, including economics, trade, hosting meetings and forums, charitable initiatives, technological innovation, culture, fashion, education, and fostering relationships with friendship cities.

Cao also introduced an innovative initiative — a specialized exchange camp aimed at providing overseas students with an in-depth understanding of Shenzhen and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, with the broader aim of attracting them to establish roots in Shenzhen for their future development.

Leveraging the power of media, the association collaborated with Shenzhen Daily to produce a monthly newsletter. This publication detailed information regarding Shenzhen’s socioeconomic development and updates on key projects, ensuring timely dissemination of important information to the friendship cities.

Looking forward to 2024, Cao outlined the association’s five key objectives, namely encouraging more institutions and organizations to establish international communications with friendship cities, expanding multilevel international communication channels, fostering people-to-people exchanges, supporting international communication among teenagers, and facilitating the global outreach of social organizations.

During the meeting, Ma Wenfeng, director of Dapeng’s comprehensive office, extended a warm welcome, and eight representatives from various sectors shared enlightening insights on international exchanges.

Before the meeting, representatives had the opportunity to visit the Baguang Looking-Glass Mangrove Wetland, an ancient tree cluster comprised of the most well-preserved and oldest looking-glass mangroves. They also explored the exhibition hall to gain an understanding of Baguang’s industrial layout.

Established in 1984, the Shenzhen People’s Association for Friendship With Foreign Countries boasts 130 member organizations, encompassing government departments, people’s organizations, social groups, enterprises, hospitals, scientific research institutions, and schools within Shenzhen.