KUNMING, (TDI): The 6th China-South Asia Cooperation Forum was held from June 19 to 20 in Kunming, the capital of China’s Yunnan Province, gathering more than 200 representatives from over ten countries including China, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Nepal, and others. Participants engaged in dialogue under the theme “Join Hands for Open and Inclusive Development,” with a shared focus on enhancing regional connectivity and sustainable development.
Co-hosted by the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the People’s Government of Yunnan Province, the forum has become a key platform for diplomatic engagement between China and countries of South Asia and the Indian Ocean Rim. Since its inception in 2018, the forum has played a role in fostering practical cooperation through the Belt and Road Initiative and expanding avenues for economic and cultural collaboration.
The forum included an opening ceremony, three specialized sub-forums, and various thematic discussions aimed at addressing regional challenges and proposing cooperative solutions. Delegates participated in both in-person and virtual sessions to exchange ideas on economic recovery, people-to-people exchanges, climate resilience, and digital innovation.
Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong emphasized China’s growing partnerships with South Asian countries, stating that mutual cooperation has deepened through high-level exchanges and shared projects under the Belt and Road framework. He stressed the importance of maintaining momentum through expanded strategic coordination and cultural ties.
Deputy Speaker of the People’s Majlis of the Maldives Ahmed Nazim highlighted that true regional cooperation depends on trust and mutual understanding. He expressed support for strengthened engagement in sustainable infrastructure, connectivity, and disaster resilience.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment of Sri Lanka Arun Hemachandra spoke about Sri Lanka’s transition towards green energy, climate adaptation, and sustainable agriculture, areas where he said China’s expertise could support long-term goals.
The forum also saw participation from the Gulf, with UAE Under Secretary of Economy Abdullah Al Saleh underscoring China’s role as the UAE’s top trade partner. He expressed hope for closer regional partnerships in smart logistics, renewable energy, and digital trade.
The forum reaffirmed Kunming’s position as a regional diplomatic and economic hub and China’s commitment to building constructive ties with South Asia through dialogue and shared growth.
The forum concluded with the Kunming Action Plan, a joint declaration that reaffirmed shared commitments to cooperation in sustainable development, regional integration, and mutual growth across South and Southeast Asia.
As China seeks to enhance its regional outreach under the Belt and Road Initiative, platforms like the China-South Asia Cooperation Forum continue to serve as essential avenues for reinforcing dialogue, trust, and economic partnership across a complex regional landscape.
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