The ASEAN-China Forum 2024 was held in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on Thursday, bringing together leaders and experts to discuss the future of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and its ties with China.
Cui Jianchun, commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong SAR, emphasized ASEAN’s importance in China’s neighborhood diplomacy and the Belt and Road Initiative. “Hong Kong is a super connector and super value-adder between China and the world,” he said at the opening ceremony. “All 10 ASEAN countries have consulates general in Hong Kong, highlighting ASEAN’s high regard for Hong Kong.”
Cui 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 cooperation between China and ASEAN.
Chanpheng Southivong, vice president of the Lao Front for National Development, spoke about Laos’s partnership in Belt and Road cooperation. “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 highlighted the shared commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and addressing common challenges, with Hong Kong playing a pivotal role in fostering stronger ties between China and ASEAN nations.
Reference(s):
Hong Kong explores unique role in boosting China-ASEAN connectivity
cgtn.com
