International journalists attend the China-South Asia Expo
A delegation of 22 journalists from 12 nations arrived in Kunming on November 19, 2022. They work for newspapers, TV stations and websites in their own countries. The China Asia Pacific Press Center under the China International Press Communication Center organized their journey to Yunnan. And the journey ended in attending the opening ceremony of the 3rd China-South Asia Cooperation Forum, a sideline event of the 6th China-South Asia Expo (CSA Expo).
The delegation members discussed the CSA Expo from different perspectives. Apart from trade cooperation, the most frequently mentioned words among journalists were China's technological advancement and infrastructural development.
"Malaysia's exhibits primarily include bird's nests, durians, and instant coffee," said Cheong Vincent from Sin Chew Daily. "Initially, I imagined intense competition among the numerous participating firms and brands. However, some Malaysian merchants told me that the Chinese market is huge enough for diverse imported goods. Local consumers welcome Malaysian products."
Vincent continued, "This is my second time attending the CSA Expo. After 6 years, I found the exhibits had expanded from food and agricultural products to biomedicine and hi-tech equipment, indicating that the Chinese government has made significant efforts to promote industrial development and foster innovation and entrepreneurship."
Phasavath Sengthong from Lao News Agency, or Khaosan Pathet Lao (KPL), introduced that coffee beans, rice, beer, silverware and embroidery represent typical specialties from Laos.
"The CSA Expo is an excellent platform for business exchanges between nations. China and Southeast Asian countries both have huge markets. I hope the two sides could work together through the expo for common prosperity in the region," said Sengthong.
"Lao media have paid great attention to the Laos-China railway," stressed Sengthong, noting the railway not only brings efficiency and convenience to people's lives but also serves as a new engine for tourism development along the route.
Basharat Rahool with Pakistan Television felt particularly attached to China. "My Chinese friends, you’re most welcome to visit Pakistan, and we’ll make you will feel at home."
He explained that the application of Chinese agricultural machinery and electronic information technology had significantly improved people's production and life in Pakistan.
"Pakistan and China are closely linked by the Belt and Road Initiative," said Rahool. "Pakistan mainly exports gemstones, ceramics, leather, and handicrafts to China. I hope that in the future, platforms like the CSA Expo could deepen bilateral exchanges and cooperation in business and culture."
"I love Kunming; I will come again." International journalists exclaimed together.
Reported by Guo Yao