The ASEAN-China Forum 2024 convened on Thursday in the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), where delegates gathered to discuss the future of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), its evolving relationship with China, and collaborative strategies to tackle regional challenges.
Cui Jianchun, commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in HKSAR, emphasized the significance of ASEAN in China’s neighborhood diplomacy and its pivotal role in the Belt and Road cooperation. Addressing the forum’s opening ceremony, Cui highlighted Hong Kong’s strategic position: “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 underscores ASEAN’s high regard for Hong Kong.”
Cui elaborated on Hong Kong’s multifaceted role as a bond for cultural and people-to-people exchanges, a bridge for economic and trade cooperation, and an essential base for Belt and Road collaboration between China and ASEAN.
Echoing these sentiments, Chanpheng Southivong, vice president of the Lao Front for National Development, spoke about the transformative impact of the China-Laos railway. “Laos is an important partner in the Belt and Road cooperation, and China is a major investor in Laos, particularly in infrastructure,” she said. “The China-Laos railway has proven to be a path of transformation, promoting investment in transport, energy, and telecommunications, strengthening people-to-people exchanges and educational cooperation, and providing more opportunities for businesses.”
The forum served as a platform for participants to brainstorm innovative solutions and reinforce the partnership between China and ASEAN. With Hong Kong positioning itself as a vital link, the region is poised to enhance connectivity, foster economic growth, and address shared regional challenges.
Reference(s):
Hong Kong explores unique role in boosting China-ASEAN connectivity
cgtn.com
