The ASEAN-China Forum 2024 took place in South China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) on Thursday, gathering participants to discuss the development of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), its relationship with China, and collaborative efforts to address regional challenges.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Cui Jianchun, commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR, emphasized that ASEAN is a priority for China's neighborhood diplomacy and a key region for Belt and Road cooperation. \"Hong Kong is a super connector and super value-adder between China and the world. All 10 ASEAN countries have consulates general in Hong Kong, which highlights ASEAN's high regard for Hong Kong,\" Cui noted.
Cui further highlighted Hong Kong's role as a bond for cultural and people-to-people exchanges, a bridge for economic and trade cooperation, and an important base for Belt and Road initiatives between China and ASEAN.
Chanpheng Southivong, vice president of the Lao Front for National Development, shared that Laos is a significant partner in Belt and Road cooperation, with China being a major investor, particularly in infrastructure. He pointed out that the China-Laos railway has been transformative, fostering investment in transport, energy, and telecommunications, strengthening people-to-people exchanges and educational cooperation, and creating more opportunities for businesses.
Reference(s):
Hong Kong explores unique role in boosting China-ASEAN connectivity
cgtn.com
