Xinhua Silk Road: RCEP Local Governments and Friendship Cities Cooperation (Huangshan) Forum 2026 Opens in Anhui, Eastern China
The RCEP Local Governments and Friendship Cities Cooperation (Huangshan) Forum 2026 officially opened on 28 May in Huangshan, Anhui Province, Eastern China. The event brings together government officials, diplomats, experts, business association representatives, and entrepreneurs from the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) member states to discuss opportunities and the strengthening of regional cooperation.
Organised by the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFRC) and the Anhui Provincial Government, the forum took place from 27–29 May across four cities: Hefei, Wuhu, Huangshan, and Bozhou. Under the theme “New Vision, New Opportunity, New Cooperation”, the event supports new development agendas, showcases emerging opportunities, and encourages practical exchange and cooperation among RCEP members, particularly in trade, investment, and the development of new quality productive forces.
In his opening remarks, CPAFFC President Yang Wanming stated that the implementation of the RCEP over the past four years has contributed significantly to regional prosperity and development. He emphasised that all parties should continue to uphold the principles of openness and inclusivity, strengthen concrete cooperation, expand community support, and place greater emphasis on empowering the younger generation.
Via video link, ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn noted that the ASEAN-China partnership is the result of market development, trust-building, and deepening cooperation over several decades. He remarked that amidst an increasingly complex and dynamic global situation, this partnership proves that regional stability and growth can only be maintained through sustained collaboration, openness, and mutually beneficial principles.
Meanwhile, ASEAN-China Centre Secretary-General Shi Zhongjun described the forum as an important platform for deepening regional cooperation among RCEP member states. He expressed hope that cooperation with Anhui Province could continue to expand, particularly in trade, cultural exchange, and other strategic sectors.
During the event, 20 strategic cooperation projects were officially inaugurated. These projects involve 12 countries, namely China, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The scope of cooperation covers science and technology, investment, trade, cultural exchange, and twin-city partnerships.
As an annual national-level event, this forum has evolved into a vital venue for exchange and cooperation between Anhui Province and RCEP member states since its inception in 2023.