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On December 2, 2024, President Yang Wanming met with Jacobo Pombo García, President of the Global Youth Leadership Forum (GYLF), at the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC). The two leaders engaged?in an in-depth and cordial?exchange of views on youth exchanges and people-to-people exchanges between China and foreign countries.Also present at the meeting were Zong Linhong, Deputy Director-General of the Department of European and Asian Affairs of the CPAFFC, and Carl Singh, a friendly figure from Costa Rica.

On November 29, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC)?hosted?a reception in Beijing to celebrate the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Bulgaria, Romania, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Poland, and Albania. Tie Ning, Vice Chairman?of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, attended the event. Together with CPAFFC President Yang Wanming and ambassadors of the seven countries in China, Tie Ning?unveiled the commemorative envelope?marking the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and the seven Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries. Around?200 participates attended the event, including representatives from Chinese ministries and commissions, universities, think tanks, businesses, as well as diplomats from the seven embassies?in China and members of China's?business, education,?and cultural sectors. Jiang Jiang, Vice President?of the CPAFFC, moderated the reception.In his speech, Yang Wanming highlighted?that the seven CEE countries were?among the first?to establish diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China. Over the past 75 years, through?the concerted efforts of both sides, bilateral?relations have grown stronger. Political mutual trust has deepened, economic and trade cooperation has flourished, people-to-people ties have become more solid, and subnational exchange have?thrived. Taking this 75th anniversary as an opportunity, he stressed the need to strengthen partnerships while preserving the original spirit behind establishing diplomatic relations; deepen strategic alignment, expand practical?cooperation,?prioritize people-to-people exchanges, promote?mutual learning among civilizations, and elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights. The CPAFFC is ready to collaborate?with the friendship organizations of the seven countries and people from all sectors of society to create more opportunities?for people-to-people?exchanges, practical cooperation, cultrual exchanges,?and youth friendship, contributing to the further development of?China's relations with the seven countries.Diplomatic envoys from the seven countries in China reflected?on the longstanding?friendship between their nations and China in their speeches. They praised?the remarkable progress?made in bilateral relations over the past 75 years. Looking ahead,?they expressed their commitment to continuing to?respect each other?politically, pursue mutual benefits, and foster?exchanges and mutual learning?between cultures, thereby deepening and expanding?cooperation with China in all areas.During the reception, the Duke String Quartet?from Central Conservatory of Music?performed?renowned?Chinese and European pieces,?creating a warm and friendly atmosphere.

On November 29, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC)?and China UnionPay Co., Ltd. held the signing ceremony for their strategic cooperation agreement in Beijing. The ceremony was attended by?CPAFFC?President Yang Wanming and Secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Committee of China UnionPay Dong Junfeng. The agreement was signed on behalf of both parties by CPAFFC?Vice President Shen Xin and Executive Vice President Hu Haozhong of China UnionPay. Prior to?the signing ceremony, President Yang Wanming met with Secretary Dong Junfeng, engaging in in-depth discussions?on potential?areas and models for future cooperation between the two organizations.Founded in March 2002, China UnionPay has become one of the world's three major bank card brands and plays a fundamental role in the development of?China's banking industry. Its acceptance network spans 183 countries and regions ?globally, with UnionPay cards issued in 83 countries and regions abroad. Through this agreement, the CPAFFC aims to form a strong partnership?with China UnionPay, leveraging each other's respective strengths. The two parties will collaborate?to explore new avenues?for?cooperation, broaden the scope of their partnership, and promote people-to-people exchanges between Chinese and foreign youth. Additionally, they will explore the possibility of jointly organizing people-to-people friendship exchange activities.?During the event, the US-China Youth and Student Exchange Association also signed a cooperation memorandum with UnionPay.Sun Tao, Director of the Department of American and Oceanian Affairs of the CPAFFC,? Luo Yongtao, General Manager of the Brand Marketing Department of China UnionPay, and others also attended the signing ceremony.

On November 29, the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC)?held its second Seminar on People-to-People Diplomacy?in Beijing, under the theme "Pooling Strength for People-to-People Diplomacy, Serving Major Country Diplomacy with Chinese Characteristics."?The event was attended by approximately?150 representatives from central government agencies, national ministries and commissions, people's organizations, universities, think tanks, media, and businesses.In his speech at the opening ceremony, Yang Wanming, President?of the CPAFFC, emphasized that?people-to-people diplomacy, as an integral part of the country's overall diplomatic efforts, has played a crucial?role throughout?various?historical phases?in China's development. On October 11, General Secretary Xi Jinping delivered a significant address?during a meeting with foreign guests attending the China International Friendship Conference and Events Marking the 70th Anniversary of the CPAFFC. He highlighted the importance of fostering?people-to-people friendship to advance global?peace and development. In his speech, General Secretary Xi elaborated on China's?commitment?to leveraging?the unique role of people-to-people diplomacy in the current global landscape. This includes building a community with a shared future for mankind, guided by the spirit of "shared responsibility as dwellers of the same planet", and embracing win-win cooperation, openness,?and inclusiveness.?The purpose of this seminar was to fully implement the principles outlined in General Secretary Xi Jinping's speech on people-to-people diplomacy.?The event aimed to unite efforts from various parties to strength people-to-people?exchanges, practical cooperation, and youth friendship?between China and other nations. The seminar also sought to?make?constructive?proposals?for advancing?high-quality development in people-to-people diplomacy, ensuring that?it better serves China's broader development?goals?and diplomatic strategy in the new era.Yang Wanming further emphasized the need to advance?people-to-people diplomacy by adhering to the core principles of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, particularly?the guidelines set forth by?General Secretary Xi Jinping regarding this field. He reiterated the importance of upholding?the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and understanding the political significance of people-to-people diplomacy. It is essential to prioritize the welfare of the people, remain focused on the?fundamental objectives?of such diplomacy, and ensure that the efforts contribute to building a community with a shared future for mankind and a better world.Following the opening ceremony, the seminar featured six roundtable dialogues. Participates had in-depth discussions on topics such as strengthening?people-to-people friendship between China and other countries, enhancing?the vitality of local sister city relationships, and promoting?the Global Civilization Initiative. All parties agreed that, in the current global context,?people-to-people diplomacy plays an increasingly important role, gaining greater prominence and a wider platform.?It was acknowledged that there is a need to uphold fundamental?principles while forging new pathways, gathering insights, and expanding people-to-people exchanges with foreign countries across multiple dimensions, levels, and sectors. This collaborative effort is seen as essential in solidifying public support for fostering?friendly and cooperative relations between China and the international community.

On November 27, Yang Wanming, President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), met with Nicholas O'Brien, Ambassador of Ireland to China, at the CPAFFC. The two sides held?in-depth discusses?on topics of common concern such as China-Ireland relations, people-to-people friendship,?and practical cooperation.Yang Wanming congratulated Ambassador Nicholas O'Brien?on his new appointment?and spoke highly of the?progress in?China-Ireland relations. He noted?that this year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two nations. Under the strategic guidance and joint promotion of their respective heads of state, China?and Ireland have achieved sound and steady growth in?bilateral relations, marked by?fruitful cooperation across various fields.?Yang emphasized that the?CPAFFC will continue to maintain close?communication with the Embassy of Ireland in China?and work to?provide active support?and valuable platforms?for enhancing?China-Ireland subnational?cooperation, enriching people-to-people exchanges, and boosting youth exchanges.?He reaffirmed the CPAFFC's commitment to contributing people's strength to the China-Ireland strategic partnership?for mutually beneficial cooperation.Ambassador Nicholas O'Brien?expressed his gratitude to President Yang for the meeting and praised the deep and enduring friendship between Ireland and China, reaffirming Ireland's?commitment to the one-China principle. He highlighted the frequent high-level?exchange between the two nations in recent years and the increasing depth of?bilateral cooperation in key?areas such as?economy, trade, culture, education,?and people-to-people exchanges. The ambassador?also commended the CPAFFC for its essential role in fostering?Ireland-China relations and?strengthening?the friendship between the two peoples. Looking forward,?Ambassador O'Brien?expressed his willingness to work closely?with the?CPAFFC to further?broaden and deepen friendly exchanges and cooperation between Ireland and China in all fields.Director-General Hao Zhongwei and Deputy Director-General Zong Linhong?of the Department of European and Asian Affairs?of the CPAFFC attended?the meeting.

On November 27, Yang Wanming, President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), met with a delegation from?the Turkish-Chinese Women's Friendship and Culture Association?(TCWFCA), led?by its?President Tan Ata?, at the CPAFFC.Yang Wanming expressed his gratitude to the?TCWFCA?for its longstanding efforts to deepen the friendship between the peoples of China and Türkiye?over the years, especially for its focus on?promoting?exchanges?in women's circles. He emphasized?that China and Türkiye, both ancient civilizations, share a rich history of connectivity through the Silk Road, which has?linked the two nations for thousands of years. Yang highlighted that?under the guidance and commitment of?Chinese President Xi Jinping and Turkish?President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, China-Türkiye relations have continued to develop steadily, with pragmatic cooperation deepening across a wide range of fields.?He stated that the?CPAFFC places great importance to exchanges and cooperation with Türkiye and is?willing to work together with friends from all sectors of society in Türkiye, including the?TCWFCA. Yang reaffirmed the CPAFFC's commitment to building more bridges between the Chinese and Turkish peoples, consolidating?their?traditional friendship, fostering people-to-people and cultural exchanges, and enhancing?practical cooperation.Tan Ata? highlighted the time-honored friendship?between?Türkiye and China,?noting that the?TCWFCA?was founded to strengthen friendly relations between the two countries. She expressed appreciation for the CPAFFC's support over the years, which has enabled the association to organize a variety of activities aimed at promoting friendship and exchange between the two nations. Looking ahead, Tan said the?TCWFCA is eager to continue working closely with its Chinese counterparts, encouraging more Turkish people to visit China, learn more about?China and experience China firsthand.CPAFFC Vice President Yan Dong, Director-General?of the?CPAFFC?Department of Asian and?African Affairs Ji Yongjun, and Ambassador of Türkiye to China Dr. ?smail Hakk? Musa?attended the meeting.

From November 21 to 25, 2024, Yang Wanming, President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), led a delegation on?a working visit to the Republic of Korea?(ROK). During this visit, Yang?attended?the Boao Forum for Asia?(BFA)?Seoul Conference held in Seoul?at the invitation?of Ban Ki-moon, Chairman of the?BFA, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Chairman of the Ban Ki-moon Foundation for a Better Future.In his speech at the conference, Yang Wanming?elaborated on?China's philosophies?and proposals, including building a community with a shared future for mankind, the Global Development?Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative, and the Belt and Road Initiative. Yang emphasized that under current global conditions,?advancing towards a shared future for humanity requires?efforts in three key?dimensions: enhancing?confidence, building consensus, and expanding mutual trust. He urged all parties to view the current and future world with a broader vision?and a more open mind?and have confidence in the future of the world. To foster a fairer, more orderly, and more inclusive?international environment, which is a common expectation of all parties, consensus should be forged on upholding multilateralism, supporting the role of the United Nations and improving global governance. People-to-people diplomacy plays a significant?role in fostering consensus. The CPAFFC will build more bridges of people-to-people?exchanges, practical cooperation, cultrual exchanges and youth friendship, and work with all parties to move towards a future?featuring people-to-people connectivity, sustainable development, harmonious coexistence, and ever-lasting?friendship.During the?conference, Yang Wanming met with Ban Ki-moon?for?an in-depth discussion on strengthening exchanges?and cooperation between the CPAFFC and the Ban Ki-moon Foundation in areas such as?youth?exchanges, climate change, and sustainable development. Yang also attended the welcome banquet?hosted by the?Federation of Korean Industries (FKI).During his?visit, Yang Wanming?held separate?meetings with several key figures, including Chung Byung-won, Deputy Minister for Political Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROK; Yoo Jeong-bok, Mayor of Incheon Metropolitan City; and Kim Byung-min, Deputy Mayor of Seoul Metropolitan Government. Yang?also held working talks with Shin Jung-seung, President of the South Korea-China Friendship Association;?Seo Cheong-won, President of the Korea-China Friendship Association; Lee Jong-kook, Executive Vice-President?of the Korea Foundation; Qu Huan, Head of the Korea China Association for Cultural Exchange; Chung Ku-chong, Chairman of the Korea-Japan Cultural?Exchange Council; Lee Hee-sup, Secretary-General of the TCS; and Fang Kun, Charge d'Affaires ad interim of?the Chinese Embassy in the ROK. These discussions covered?China-ROK?relations, people-to-people friendship, and exchanges and cooperation in public opinion?and culture?and among think tanks, young people,?and subnational entities, which led to positive consensus?on future cooperation. Yang also?participated in activities related to the China-Republic of Korea (ROK) Affinity?Cultural Festival?in Suwon City, themed "Korean Traditional Culture?and Kashgar Charms".Yang Wanming emphasized that China and the ROK are important neighbors and cooperative partners. Over the past 32 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, the relationship between the two countries has seen rapid growth, with fruitful exchanges and cooperation in multiple fields,?delivering tangible benefits to both countries and their peoples.?At present, with joint?efforts from?the?two governments and people from all sectors, China-ROK relations are showing a positive trend of improvement and development. Yang highlighted the recent meeting between?Chinese President Xi Jinping and?ROK President Yoon Suk-yeol?on the sidelines of the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Lima, Peru. The?two leaders reached an important consensus on promoting the sound and steady?development of the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership, setting the direction for the long-term development of bilateral relations and all-around exchanges and cooperation. President Xi Jinping?emphasized the need to engage in activities that enhance friendship and intensify exchanges in areas such as media, academia, sub-national governance, and especially among youth.?Yang pledged that the?CPAFFC would?act on the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, take advantage of opportunities?such as?the APEC Economic Leaders'?Meeting to be held in the ROK in 2025, and continue to carry out initiatives to enhance friendship and expand cooperation between the two countries. The CPAFFC will work ceaselessly to?strengthen exchanges and cooperation in cultural, media and academic?areas and among subnational?entities and young people, in a bid to cement public support for?the sustainable?improvement and development of China-ROK relations.Participants?from sectors of society on the ROK side said that as important neighbors, the development of friendly relations between the ROK and China is of great immediate and far-reaching?significance. It is encouraging that the two heads of state successfully met in Lima and reached an important consensus on developing ROK-China relations and promoting people-to-people exchanges. They expressed the readiness to take this opportunity to build on the sound momentum?and work with the CPAFFC to enrich the contents of?institutional exchange programs between the two sides, break new ground, attract more young people to participate, and continue to deepen friendly exchanges and practical cooperation, contributing?to the development of ROK-China relations.

On November 24, the China-Republic of Korea (ROK) Affinity?Cultural Festival?themed on "Korean Traditional Culture?and Kashgar Charms", took place?in Suwon,?ROK. The event?was co-hosted?by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC)?and the Korea China Association for Cultural Exchange. Attendees included?Yang Wanming, President of the?CPAFFC; Shen Xiaogang, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in the ROK;?Qu Huan, Head of the?Korea China Association for Cultural Exchange; Lee Hee-sup, Secretary-General of the Trilateral Cooperation?Secretariat (TCS); and Master Deyun, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. Dou Xuemei,?Director of the Publicity Department?of Kashgar Prefecture of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of the Communist Party of China, led an economic, trade and cultural delegation participated?in relevant activities. The event attracted approximately?200 participants?from political, economic, cultural, and other sectors in the ROK.President Yang Wanming welcomed and thanked the guests for their attendance. He highlighted that China and the ROK are both part of?the Asian cultural circle, sharing deep cultural and value-based affinities that serve as a bond between the two peoples. Yang emphasized that?cultural exchanges?act?as a bridge for heart-to-heart communication, playing a critical role in enhancing?mutual understanding and friendship. He noted the unique opportunity presented by inviting the Kashgar Prefecture of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region to the ROK. Kashgar’s delegation performed songs and dances with?distinctive ethnic characteristics?and showcased?intangible cultural heritage products, fostering an appreciation of?China's diverse cultural traditions. Yang expressed hope that such cultural collaborations would serve as a platform for people-to-people connectivity and friendly exchanges, further strengthening mutual learning between civilizations and advancing people-to-people relations between China and the ROK.Yang also?praised the Korea China Association for Cultural Exchange for its long-standing contributions to fostering?China-ROK friendship and strengthening?people-to-people bonds. He?expressed his commitment to deepening future cooperation with the organization, proposing the joint building of bridges for?people-to-people exchanges, pragmatic cooperation, people-to-people exchanges,?and youth friendship. Additionally, Yang acknowledged the support provided by the TCS in institutionalizing cooperation among China, Japan,?and the ROK.?He?introduced the role of?the CPAFFC in facilitating local government cooperation among the three nations?and extended an invitation to Secretary-General Lee Hee-sup?to lead a delegation to the 26th China-Japan-ROK Friendship Cities Exchange Conference, which will be held next year in Yancheng, Jiangsu, China.Qu Huan expressed her gratitude to President Yang and his delegation for attending the event. She reaffirmed?the organization's commitment to maintaining close cooperation with the?CPAFFC and?vowed to deepen exchanges and cooperation in economy, people-to-people exchanges, Buddhism, and youth?engagement.?Qu emphasized the importance of contributing people's efforts?to foster mutual understanding, friendship,?and trust between the peoples?of the two countries.During the festival, the Korean side showcased traditional Korean folk music and dance, calligraphy, the?tea ceremony,?and other culture?highlights.?Meanwhile, the Chinese delegation displayed landscape and cultural?photographs as well as intangible cultural heritage products from Kashgar. Performers from the Kashgar Song and Dance Troupe presented captivating songs and dances that reflected the region's ethnic characteristics. The event culminated with performers from?both sides singing the Chinese song Friends?alongside the audience, symbolizing the?unity and shared aspirations of the two nations.?

On November 19, the?China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024?concluded in Kunming, Yunnan Province. Centered on the theme of "Common Prosperity, Shared Future", the conference brought together?more than?700 participants, including representatives from 66 provinces, states,?and 125 cities in 41 countries, along?with 66 local government organizations or friendship organizations, experts, and business leaders.This year's conference?was co-hosted?by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), the China International Friendship Cities Association (CIFCA), and the People's Government of Yunnan Province. The China International Friendship Cities Conference?is recognized as the largest and highest-level institutional event in China?related to sister-city cooperation. Since its?inception in?2008, it has been held seven times in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Wuhan,?and now?Kunming.What is the significance of this conference??How do sister-city exchanges contribute to relations between China and the world, as well as to social and economic development? What steps?will China take to?further promote?and develop?sister-city relations??On November 20, Yang Wanming, President of the?CPAFFC, provided written responses?during an exclusive interview with The Paper (www.thepaper.cn).Yang Wanming highlighted that over the past five decades, the CPAFFC?has worked closely with local governments at all levels in China to actively and persistently promote?exchanges and cooperation?with sister cities worldwide. These efforts have yielded remarkable and tangible results. He noted that sister-city exchanges have built bridges of friendship among people, created a "through train"?for economic and trade cooperation, paved "a road to?happiness"?that benefits?the well-being of the people, and introduced innovative models for regional cooperation.According to Yang, this year's conference underscored the critical role of international friendship cities work?in fostering regional economic integration, driving local economic and social advancement, and enhancing the people's well-being. Yang emphasized that both the theme forum and the four parallel forums—focused on smart cities, green development, cultural heritage preservation, and transport connectivity—address issues of global concern. These discussions showcased the practical value of sister-city cooperation in tackling some of the most pressing challenges of our time. Furthermore, the conference served as an opportunity to reconnect international counterparts whose ties had been interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic while simultaneously establishing new channels for collaboration between local governments and friendly organizations. Yang noted that there was?a unanimous commitment among?participants to leverage the conference as a platform for?broadening and deepening?cooperation.Yang Wanming also?emphasized?that the?vital importance of people-to-people and cultural exchanges,?particularly?among younger generation. He said that?fostering mutual understanding and establishing bonds of friendship?among the young people is crucial for consolidating the popular support needed to strengthen state-to-state relations. Yang called for more diverse and inclusive exchange programs between Chinese and foreign youth. By encouraging increased communication and dialogue among the young people from different countries, these programs can help build trust and understanding across cultures.?He expressed hope that these initiatives would inject youthful vitality into sister-city collaborations, ensuring that the great cause of people-to-people friendship is carried forward by future generationsThe following is the full transcript of the interview:Sister City Exchanges Build a Bridge of Friendship among the Peoplewww.thepaper.cn: The China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024?has?concluded. What do you think of the outcomes achieved at the conference?Yang Wanming: International sister cities are a vital?channel for enhancing people-to-people friendship, deepening mutually beneficial cooperation,?and promoting mutual learning among civilizations. President Xi Jinping attaches great importance to the work of international sister cities. He has emphasized that activities involving international sister cities have become an integral part of bilateral relations between China and relevant countries. He?has?also stressed the need to strengthen the work related to international sister cities, improve communication between Chinese and foreign local governments, and achieve mutually beneficial cooperation?through sharing resources and drawing on complementary strengths.Co-hosted by the?CPAFFC and the CIFCA, the China International Friendship Cities Conference?is the largest and highest-level institutional conference related to sister cities in China. Held every two years in principle, the conference has?convened six sessions since its inception in 2008, with previous editions held in Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Chongqing,?and Wuhan.This year's conference?stands out in several ways,?particularly in terms of?timing, location, theme, scale,?and outcomes:In terms of timing, due to the impact of COVID-19, the 7th?edition, originally scheduled for 2020,?was?postponed?until this year. This makes it the first international friendship cities?conference to take place since the outbreak of the pandemic. ?Additionally, 2024 marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 70th anniversary of the founding of the CPAFFC, making this a?particular significant year?for us.The decision to hold the conference in Kunming, Yunnan Province was driven by their unique geographical advantages and outstanding achievements in fostering international sister-city relationships. Notably, from November 6 to 7, Kunming also hosted the Eighth Greater Mekong Subregion Summit, underscoring its strategic importance. This year's conference highlights the critical role of international friendship cities in promoting regional economic integration, advancing regional economic and social development, and enhancing people's well-being.?Gathering with friends from all around?the world in Kunming, known as the "Spring City", in early winter reflects?the vitality and prosperity?of international sister-city cooperation.The theme of this year's conference, "Common Prosperity, Shared Future", was both timely and relevant.?In addition to the opening ceremony and the theme forum, the conference featured four parallel forums, namely,?"Technological Innovation Helps Build Smart Cities", "Urban Green Development Benefits People’s Livelihood", "Guarding and Inheriting the City's Historical and Cultural Roots",?and "Transportation Interconnection Builds a?Community of Urban Destiny". These are issues of widespread concern in the international community, holding significant appeal for guests from all over the world. Nearly 60 Chinese and foreign guests enthusiastically delivered speeches across various sessions,?offering valuable insights into fostering exchanges and mutual learning, building consensus for cooperation,?improving people's?wellbeing, and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes?between?Chinese and foreign local governments.As to the scale, over 700 participants?attended the conference. Among them were 37 provincial and ministerial-level leaders, 74 mayors and deputy mayors, representatives from?66 provinces and states, 125 cities, and 63 local government organizations and friendly organizations?across?41 countries spanning?five continents, experts,?scholars, business leaders, and media representatives. The United States, Japan, Australia, Canada,?and New Zealand were well-represented?at the conference. Also in attendance?were representatives?of some foreign local governments?that have not yet established sister cities with China,?but demonstrate great potential for cooperation and a strong will to do so. This underscores the broad reach, strong representation,?and high?appeal of China's?international sister-city efforts.The outcomes of this year's conference were equally remarkable. Highlights include 16 agreements signed to establish new?sister city/province relationships and cooperation projects between Chinese and foreign cities. An increase of 483 sister-city partnerships since the last?conference in 2018, bringing?the?total number?of China's international sister-city relationships to?3,054 pairs.?To further motivate Chinese and foreign local governments to carry out international sister-city exchanges, we selected 20 Chinese provinces and cities that have performed well in work related to international friendship cities?and 40 foreign provinces, states,?and cities that have actively engaged in?exchanges and cooperation with China's sister cities. They were respectively?awarded the International Friendship City Award for Outstanding Contribution, and the Friendship City Award for Outstanding Partnership with China. The release of?the Kunming Initiative, calling on sister cities and local governments of all countries worldwide to strengthen solidarity and mutual assistance,?and deepen exchanges and cooperation. The conference also served as a platform for many counterparts to resume ties disrupted by COVID-19 and establish new channels of communication between local governments and friendly organizations. Participants universally agreed that this conference was timely and expressed a commitment to relying on this platform to broaden and deepen cooperation continuously.www.thepaper.cn: In your opinion, what role do sister city exchanges play in fostering?local economic and social development, and what has been their?impact?Yang Wanming: The?CPAFFC has the critical responsibility of guiding, coordinating, managing, and facilitating the establishment and development of sister-city relationships between China and foreign countries. As of now,?3,046 pairs of sister provinces/states?and sister cities have?been established with 602 provinces/states and 1,867 cities in 147 countries, forming an expansive circle of friends across?five continents. Over the past half-century, we have worked closely?with local governments at all levels in China to actively engage in?in-depth exchanges and cooperation with sister cities worldwide, achieving?remarkable and fruitful results.Sister city exchanges have built a bridge of friendship among peoples?through a variety of community-centered exchange activities. Sister cities in China and abroad have been enhancing mutual understanding and friendship among different peoples through a rich tapestry of friendly exchange events?close to the people. They include mutual?visits by residents, cultural performances, sports competitions, summer camps for young people, language and culture classes, and border residents'?gala. Most importantly, in?response to sudden disasters, Chinese and foreign sister cities have supported and helped each other,?leaving a touching chapter of standing together through thick and thin.Sister city exchanges have created a "through train"?for economic and trade cooperation. Chinese and foreign sister cities have worked to strengthen industrial complementarity and resource sharing, organize?distinctive?trade and investment events, and establish platforms for high-level opening up, such as pilot free trade zones. They have collaborated to develop cross-border corridors, industrial parks, logistics parks, manufacturing bases, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) demonstration zones.?Besides, they have developed a tightly woven network for economic and trade cooperation?and jointly fostered new growth areas?for cooperation in fields such as healthcare, green development, digitalization, and innovation. They have also advanced industrial integration, interconnected development and shared benefits. These efforts have significantly bolstered?regional economic growth and?contributed to?building an open and inclusive global economy.Sister city exchanges have paved "a road to?happiness" benefiting?the well-being of the people?by?exploring?innovative ways of achieving?common development?and?implementing?new cooperation projects?that directly benefit the public. Chinese and foreign sister cities have actively shared?experiences and insights in areas such as?sustainable development, smart city, digital governance, environmental protection, and addressing challenges related to?population aging. A range of projects focused on improving livelihoods have been implemented, including free medical services, education cooperation, vocational training, technology promotion, poverty reduction,?and agricultural development. Platforms such as Juncao Technology Aassistance, Luban Workshops,?and Brightness Action?have become signature initiatives, providing?tangible benefits to local people.Sister city exchanges have also paved the way for innovative models for regional cooperation. Yunnan, one of the provinces with the most neighboring countries and the longest land border in China, serves as an important gateway to South and Southeast Asia. This unique?geographical advantage was?one of the key reasons why Kunming was chosen as the host?city for this year's?conference.?As one of the major outcomes of this conference, Kunming will, in partnership?with relevant domestic and foreign cities along the China-Laos Railway, initiate the establishment of the China-Laos Railway City Alliance. Dialogue and cooperation mechanisms among cities, think tanks,?and enterprises?will be put in place to strengthen cooperation in infrastructure, trade,?and investment between cities?and explore new approaches?to boost regional economic cooperation.Building a Circle of Friends and a Partner Network for People-to-People Diplomacywww.thepaper.cn: What role has the CPAFFC played in stepping up exchanges and cooperation between the peoples of China and other countries?Yang Wanming: People-to-people diplomacy serves as the bedrock for strengthening people's friendship and promoting the development of national relations.?Over the past 70 years, the CPAFFC, as a national people's organization dedicated to people-to-people diplomacy, has adhered to the principles of "friendship, cooperation, peace, and development". It has worked?to cultivate people-to-people ties, build bridges to enhance national relations,?and facilitate international cooperation. Throughout its history, the CPAFFC has aligned itself with?the aspirations of the people, the nation, and the world.Over the past seven decades, the CPAFFC?has remained true to?its?original aspiration?of fostering international friendship. It has established friendly exchanges and cooperative relationships with over 400 organizations and institutions across more than 150 countries.?Moreover, it has fostered over?3,000 sister city (province/state) partnerships between China and 140 countries, creating?a vast network?of friends and partners spanning?five continents. The CPAFFC has played a key?role as a conduit for people-to-people diplomacy, conducting?extensive people-to-people exchanges?on multiple fronts, at different levels, in various areas and of multiple dimensions.Over the past seven decades, the CPAFFC?has also been committed itself?to mutually beneficial cooperation. It?has mobilized?resources from international sister cities, multinational corporations, and friendly organizations to build mechanisms between local and civil exchanges between China and other?countries. Through this platform,?it has promoted pragmatic cooperation in sectors?such as?trade, education, science and technology, culture, ecology, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and human resource training. The CPAFFC has also actively participated in international efforts to combat COVID-19, ensuring?that the benefits of development are shared globally.Over the past seven decades, the CPAFFC?has utilized people-to-people exchanges to introduce Chinese culture to the world?and facilitate?exchange and mutual learning?among civilizations. Through a variety of artistic forms, including music, dance, drama, and acrobatics,?it has organized popular events such as food festivals, dragon boat races, summer camps, and grand gatherings to give the people of all countries?a stronger sense of fulfillment?and engagement and increase mutual understanding and friendship between Chinese and foreign people.www.thepaper.cn: The younger generation is playing an increasingly prominent role in sister-city cooperation. How?does the CPAFFC encourage and support the younger generation in contributing to the cause of friendship between China and foreign countries?Yang Wanming: Youth are the most?dynamic and enterprising group in any?society. With their?open and active mind, they are more willing to try new things and accept new ideas.?They represent hope and the future. Youth exchanges serve as?a strong impetus for?state-to-state relations. President Xi Jinping has often?emphasized that the future of state-to-state relations lies with?the youth. During his overseas?visits, President Xi Jinping visited universities, middle schools and elementary schools, exchanged letters and interacted frequently with teachers and students, and encouraged young people in all countries to learn Chinese and understand China, sowing?the seeds?of friendship. The story of his enduring?friendship with an old friend in the State of Iowa,?the United States when he was a young man is?enduring and widely told, leaving us with profound insights.Since the beginning of this year, President Xi Jinping has sent a congratulatory letter to the Bond with Kuliang: 2024 China-U.S. Youth Festival?and extended a message to the "Shared Journey of Friendship"?US Youth Exchange Delegation. First Lady Peng Liyuan also attended the China-U.S. Teenager?Cultural and Sports Exchange Event, "Shared Journey for China-U.S. Friendship", which has further strengthened ties between the young people of the two countries.?These efforts have inspired the youth to take an active role in fostering understanding and building relationships.People-to-people exchanges are vital for younger generations to understand one another and forge?bonds?of friendship. By promoting communication and dialogue among the youth from different countries,?the CPAFFC aims to increase mutual?understanding and trust, thus consolidating?the popular support necessary?for the long-term development of state-to-state relations.?To this end, the?CPAFFC will proactively mobilize the resources of sister cities and vigorously carry out exchanges between Chinese and foreign youth. Next year, the CPAFFC will work with relevant Chinese and foreign local governments to jointly organize the Bond with Kuliang: China-U.S. Youth Festival?Series Activities, the Youth of Russia and China Walking the Road of Friendship, the Conference of the Junior High School Students Table Tennis Friendship Competition Between China and Japan Friendly Exchange Cities, the China-Africa Future Leaders'?Dialogue, the ASEAN-China?Youth Leaders?Exchange Festival and other institutional activities. It is hoped that?a wide range?of?exchange programs?between Chinese and foreign youth will be carried out in various forms?to?inject youthful vigor?into sister-city cooperation?and ensure that the great cause of people-to-people friendship will be passed on from generation to generation.

From November 18 to 19, Yang Wanming, President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), held meetings?in Kunming?with several distinguished foreign guests attending the China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024.?Benjamin Kabikira, Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works of Zimbabwe; Khamraev Oybek Nematovich, Deputy Governor of Samarkand Region of Uzbekistan;?Lee Brammer, Mayor of Cavendish, Canada;?Nakagawa Motonobu, Mayor of Nara?City, Nara?Prefecture, Japan;?Grant Smith, President of the Global Cities New Zealand?and Mayor of Palmerston North, New Zealand; A.Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Carol Robertson Lopez, Chair Emeritus of?Sister Cities International; and Andrei Maximov, Director General of All-Russian Union of Cities. All of them came to China for the China International Friendship Cities Conference?2024.During the conference, President Yang Wanming also had talks with many foreign guests. Among them were Bunchan Sivongphan, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee?and Governor of Xieng Khouang Province?of Laos;?Viengsavanh Siphandone, Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and Governor of Luang Namtha Province?of Laos;?Maurizio Rasero, Governor of Asti Province and Mayor of the Asti City of Italy;?U Bo Htay, Mayor of Yangon, Myanmar;?Emil Dr?ghici, President of the Association of Communes of Romania?and Mayor of Vulcana-B?i, Dambovi?a County, Romania; and Fabrizio Santoni,?Secretary General of the Parliament of Rome, Italy.President Yang Wanming Meets with Deputy Minister Benjamin Kabikira of Local Government and Public Works of ZimbabwePresident Yang Wanming Meets with?Deputy Governor Khamraev Oybek Nematovich of Samarkand Region of UzbekistanYang Wanming welcomed the guests from different?countries who visited China for China International Friendship Cities Conference?2024?upon invitation. He highly appreciated?the importance the foreign side attaches to friendly relations with China?and the contribution it has long made to the development of such friendly relations?and the strengthening of subnational cooperation between China and foreign countries.?He congratulated the foreign provinces, states and cities on receiving the Friendship City Award for Outstanding Partnership with China?and encouraged them to continue to play an exemplary role in further building?up popular support for?the development of bilateral relations.President Yang Wanming Meets with Mayor Lee Brammer of Cavendish, CanadaPresident Yang Wanming Meets with Mayor of Nara City Nakagawa MotonobuYang Wanming?emphasized the CPAFFC's dedication to better coordinating the work of international sister cities. He noted that the CPAFFC will support countries in?strengthening cooperation with relevant Chinese provinces and cities, drive more Chinese and foreign provinces and cities with significant cooperation potential and strong willingness to establish sister city/province relationships, build bridges?for cooperation in key areas, including economy and trade, culture, education, tourism, youth exchanges, and facilitate foreign parties?in holding promotional activities in China.?Yang further highlighted that the CPAFFC stands ready to work with all parties to fully leverage the China International Friendship Cities Conference?as a pivotal platform. By playing the unique role of people-to-people diplomacy, the?CPAFFC seeks to further deepen friendship, strengthen mutual learning, expand cooperation for common development, and contribute subnational and people's efforts to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.President Yang Meets with Grant Smith, President of the Global Cities New Zealand and Mayor of Palmerston NorthPresident Yang Meets with A.Amartuvshin, Deputy Mayor of Ulaanbaatar, MongoliaForeign guests expressed their sincere gratitude to the CPAFFC for its warm?invitation and extended congratulations on the 70th anniversary of the founding of the CPAFFC. They?acknowledged the fundamental role of international sister city relations in advancing state-to-state relations?and praised?the scale and outcomes of this year's China International Friendship Cities Conference. Many foreign representatives expressed a strong willingness to enhance?cooperation with China, promote local economic and social development, improve people's well-being, and actively participate?in bilateral and multilateral activities organized by the CPAFFC. Several guests hoped to take this conference as an opportunity to establish more sister city (province and state) relations with China?and extended invitations to?President Yang Wanming to visit their countries when appropriate.President Yang Wanming Meets with Carol Robertson Lopez, Chair Emeritus of Sister Cities InternationalPresident Yang Wanming Meets with Andrei Maximov, Director General of the All-Russian Union of Cities?(2nd from left), Anna Diu, Member of the Auditing?Committee of the All-Russian Union of Cities?and Chairman of the Syktyvkar City Council, Komi?Republic, Russia (1st from left), and Vyacheslav Gavrilov, Deputy Mayor of Yaroslavl City, Yaroslavl Oblast, Russia?(1st from right)CPAFFC Vice President Yuan Mindao, Vice President Yan Dong, Secretary-General Sun Xueqing, and heads of relevant CPAFFC?departments?as well as?foreign affairs offices (friendship associations)?of relevant provinces and cities in China attended the meeting.