The 9th China-South Asia Expo commenced today (June 19) in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province in southwestern China, under the theme “Unity, Cooperation, and Development.” The event will continue until June 24 and is recognized as a key platform for economic and trade engagement between China and South Asian nations.
Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, Wang Dongming, addressed the opening ceremony, emphasizing China’s commitment to working closely with South Asian countries to promote peace, prosperity, and shared development. He highlighted China’s openness to deepening practical cooperation across sectors and to building a community with a shared future alongside neighboring nations.
In recent years, China and South Asia have strengthened their collaborative ties through openness and mutual participation, enhancing practical cooperation in various sectors. Wang Dongming reiterated China’s vision of advancing regional unity under five key pillars — peace, tranquility, prosperity, beauty, and friendship — to create a brighter shared future.
This year’s Expo features 11 thematic halls, showcasing high-end manufacturing, clean energy, and modern agriculture. Notably, Sri Lanka has been named the theme country of the 2024 Expo, with around 100 Sri Lankan entrepreneurs participating. Their exhibits include gemstones and jewelry, Ceylon tea, batik products, coconut-based goods, and spices.
A high-level Sri Lankan delegation led by the Minister of Trade is attending the event, representing the Sri Lankan government and further enhancing the island nation’s trade diplomacy efforts in the region.