The much-anticipated 20th China-ASEAN Expo officially began on September 17, 2023, marking two decades of strategic partnership between the Chinese mainland and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations). This milestone event not only celebrates 20 years of collaboration but also highlights the enduring economic bonds that have flourished over the years.
Leading the charge, Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered an inspiring keynote speech at the opening ceremony held in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The event also saw the presence of prominent leaders from ASEAN countries, including Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, Laotian Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Indonesia's Vice President Ma'ruf Amin, and Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Additionally, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn was in attendance to emphasize the significance of this year's expo.
For the past 14 years, the Chinese mainland has been ASEAN's largest trading partner, a position it has held steadily. Since 2020, both sides have been each other's top trading partners, a trend further solidified by the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the advancement of the upgraded China-ASEAN Free Trade Area. This robust trade relationship underscores China’s role as a key foreign investor in ASEAN countries.
ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn highlighted the expo as a pivotal platform that has actively promoted trade, investment, and tourism between the regions. Over the past two decades, the China-ASEAN Expo has expanded economic cooperation beyond traditional trade and investment, delving into areas like international production capacity cooperation, finance, digital economy, health, tourism, and education. This comprehensive collaboration showcases the dynamic and multifaceted relationship between the Chinese mainland and ASEAN.
As the expo continues, participants are excited to explore new opportunities and further strengthen the ties that have been nurtured over 20 years. With such a vibrant backdrop, the China-ASEAN Expo promises to be a cornerstone event for fostering growth and innovation in the region.
