President Yang Wanming Delivers Video Remarks at the "Bridge of Peace: Dialogue between Greater Bay Area and European Youth Leaders"
On July 27, 2025, the "Bridge of Peace: Dialogue between Greater Bay Area and European Youth Leaders"?was successfully held in the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin. The event was co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and China International Communications Group (CICG), under the theme "Lasting Peace by Youth, Brighter Future via Technology."?President Yang Wanming of the CPAFFC delivered video remarks to the participating Chinese and European youth leaders. Du Zhanyuan, President of CICG, also addressed the event via video, and Jacobo García, President of the Global Youth Leadership Forum, attended the event?and delivered remarks.In his video remarks, President Yang noted that this year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. He emphasized that both China and Europe are key pillars in a multipolar world and share the responsibility of promoting global peace and prosperity. Youth, as the most dynamic and vibrant force in society, should uphold a spirit of strengthening?global solidarity, embrace openness and inclusiveness, and work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind and a better world for all.President Yang shared three hopes for the young participants.?The first?is to?adopt a broad and forward-looking perspective—to "see beyond the clouds"—by exploring the world with open minds and hearts, breaking through mental boundaries, and thinking critically and independently. Such qualities are essential for fostering deeper mutual understanding and trust between China and Europe, and for building a stronger foundation for unity and cooperation among nations.?The second is to demonstrate the daring to "make the sun and the moon shine in the new sky", facing global challenges such as regional conflicts, wealth disparity, and climate change with the pioneering spirit and cooperative mindset that define their generation?and always keep the well-being of all humanity in view.?The third is to have?wisdom rooted in harmony and coexistence, citing the idea that "all living things grow side by side without harming one another."?Young people should treat differences among civilizations with equality and respect, and promote dialogue between Chinese and European civilizations through openness and mutual learning, enabling both to thrive through exchange and mutual enrichment.The dialogue served as the centerpiece of the "Bridge to the Future: European Youth Leaders Tour of the Greater Bay Area"?initiative. More than 40 youth representatives from 12 European countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Romania, and Poland, joined their peers from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to exchange views on topics such as China-Europe relations, technological innovation, and cultural heritage. Through meaningful dialogue and mutual learning, participants deepened mutual understanding, forged new friendships, and contributed fresh momentum to the advancement of China-Europe friendship and the promotion of global peace.
President Yang Wanming Meets with President of the Governors Association of the Republic of Korea and Mayor of Incheon Yoo Jeong-bok
On July 23, 2025, President Yang Wanming?of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) met with Yoo Jeong-bok, President of the Governors Association of the Republic of Korea and Mayor of Incheon (GAROK), at the CPAFFC. The two sides held in-depth discussions and reached positive consensus?on a series of issues of mutual interest, including China-ROK relations, subnational exchanges, and practical cooperation.President Yang commended the Governors Association of Korea and the Incheon Metropolitan Government for their active contributions to promoting practical cooperation between subnational governments of China and the Republic of Korea (ROK), and for deepening the friendship between the two peoples. China and the ROK are important neighbors and partners. Further deepening bilateral exchanges and cooperation is in the shared interests of two?countries and their peoples.?Following the inauguration of the new ROK administration, President Xi Jinping and President Lee Jae-myung?held a telephone conversation and reached a significant consensus on elevating the China-ROK strategic cooperative partnership to a higher level. This has charted a clear course for the long-term development of bilateral relations and multi-sectoral cooperation. The CPAFFC stands ready to work with the ROK side to implement the important understandings reached by the two leaders, fully leverage the strengths of subnational governments and friendship?city partnerships, build a robust platform for practical cooperation, and ensure the successful convening of the Third China-ROK Governors'?Forum, thus contributing actively to the steady growth?of China-ROK relations.Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok highly praised the role that exchanges between subnational governments play in the broader bilateral relationship. ROK subnational governments have consistently attached great importance to developing relations with China. The successfully holding of?the Third ROK-China Governors'?Forum carries great significance. The ROK sides will work closely with the CPAFFC to use the forum as an opportunity to strengthen friendly exchanges and practical collaboration between subnational governments, thereby contributing to closer bilateral ties and enhanced friendship between the two peoples.The two sides also held consultations on matters related to the organization of the Third China-ROK Governors'?Forum.
President Yang Wanming Meets with Member of Japan's House of Representatives Abe Toshiko
On July 23, 2025, President Yang Wanming of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) met with Abe Toshiko, a member of Japan's House of Representatives, at the CPAFFC headquarters. The two sides exchanged views on China-Japan relations and discussed ways to promote exchanges and cooperation in subnational, cultural, and youth sectors.President Yang extended a warm welcome to Abe Toshiko and commended her for her long-standing commitment and positive contributions to advancing exchanges across various fields of two countries and promoting the improvement and development of China-Japan relations. He noted that bilateral ties are currently at a crucial stage of improvement and development.The?meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba held last November in Lima?has?charted the course for future bilateral development. Guided by the strategic leadership of two?heads of state, the dialogue and cooperation across all levels and sectors have continued to advance steadily, leading to a series of positive interactions that have further enriched the substance of the China-Japan relationship of strategic mutual benefit. History and present-day realities have consistently shown that the sound and stable development of China-Japan relations serves the fundamental interests of two?countries and their peoples.President Yang emphasized that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, an important occasion for two?sides to face history with sincerity and work together toward the future. China attaches great importance to its relationship with Japan and is committed to cultivating good-neighborly friendship. It is?hoped?that the two?sides will move toward each other in the spirit of mutual respect; uphold the principles enshrined in the four political documents between China and Japan to safeguard the political foundation of bilateral ties; expand practical cooperation to reinforce the foundation of shared interests; strengthen cultural and people-to-people exchanges, especially among youth, to improve public sentiment toward friendship; and deepen subnational exchanges and cooperation to lay a more solid social foundation for the long-term development of bilateral relations.Abe Toshiko stated that the development of Japan-China relations is of great significance for maintaining regional and global peace and stability and for promoting global economic growth. The Japanese side is ready?to continue advancing exchanges and cooperation in areas such as economy and trade, education, and culture, to enhance mutual understanding, deepen practical collaboration, and contribute to the sustained improvement and development of Japan-China relations.Zhu Dan, Director-General of the Department of East Asian Affairs of the CPAFFC, was present at the meeting.At the invitation of the CPAFFC, Abe Toshiko and her delegation visited Beijing, Qingdao, and other locations from July 22 to 24, 2025.
"Ode to Peace" Unveiled for the First Time at the National Art Museum of China
On July 19, 2025, the Ode to Peace art exhibition opened at the National Art Museum of China. Co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and the National Art Museum of China, the exhibition commemorates the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.?For the first time, the public is able to view Ode to Peace, a monumental Chinese painting jointly created by 14 renowned masters—including Qi Baishi—from the CPAFFC's collection. Also on display are 16 other rare pieces, including Hundred Flowers and Doves of Peace by Qi Baishi, Peony and Peace by Yu Feian, and Child and Dove by Jiang Zhaohe. President Yang Wanming of the CPAFFC and Director Pan Yikui of the National Art Museum of China attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks. Shen Xin,?Vice President of the CPAFFC;?Lin Mao, President of the Central Academy of Fine Arts;?Ma Sai, Dean of the Academy of Arts & Design, Tsinghua University;?as well as more than a dozen prominent figures from China's art community, were present at the opening ceremony.In his remarks, President Yang Wanming fondly recalled the touching story of how master artists such as Qi Baishi, Chen Banding, He Xiangning, and Yu Feian collaborated to create Ode to Peace for the 1955 World Peace Conference. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to artists for their longstanding support of the CPAFFC's people-to-people and cultural exchange initiatives.?President Yang stated that, on this solemn occasion marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the CPAFFC will host a series of peace-themed people-to-people friendship events, to call upon people from all nations and walks of life to remember history, cherish peace, and work together to uphold global peace and development, thus contributing to the building of?a better future for a community with a shared future for mankind.?Looking to the future, the CPAFFC will remain dedicated to acting as a bridge for international people-to-people?and cultural exchanges. In collaboration with Chinese and international artists, the CPAFFC will continue using the power of art to move, inspire, and connect people, deepening mutual understanding and emotional resonance between cultures, and together painting a new chapter in people-to-people friendship through art.Through the medium of fine art, this exhibition reflects on the legacy of war while championing the ideal of peace. It seeks to portray—through artistic expression—the spiritual vision of a community with a shared future for mankind. Nearly 80 works are featured, drawn from the collections of the two co-hosting institutions. The exhibit spans a variety of genres, including traditional Chinese painting, oil painting, sculpture, and printmaking. The works span more than a century from the war-scarred early 20th century to the dynamic present day. They represent both the tireless dedication of generations of artists and the shared human yearning for peace expressed across cultural boundaries.This year also marks the 70th anniversary of the creation of Ode to Peace. From June 22 to 29, 1955, the World Peace Conference was held in Helsinki, Finland. In the lead-up to the event, 14 celebrated Chinese artists—including Qi Baishi, Chen Banding, He Xiangning, Yu Feian, Wang Shensheng, Li Ruiling, Ma Jin, Xu Yansun, Yang Min, Wang Xuetao, Wu Yige, Zhang Qiyi, Tian Shiguang, and Duan Lüqing—collaborated over ten days to complete the large-scale Chinese painting. Finished in May 1955, the work expressed the Chinese people's heartfelt commitment to peace and their opposition to war and aggression.Measuring 398 centimeters in length and 201 centimeters in height, the painting features 15 doves symbolizing peace as its central motif. Seven of the doves are depicted in flight, soaring amid a profusion of colorful blossoms, pine trees, stones, and flowing water. The remaining eight doves are positioned gracefully on the ground—some resting among flowers and grass, others near rocks and streams—engaged in peaceful acts such as foraging, resting, and playing. The serene, harmonious atmosphere captures the peaceful life envisioned by those who cherish peace.?The background composition incorporates a variety of seasonal flora and natural elements, adding depth and harmony to the overall visual structure.?The artists employed a range of traditional Chinese techniques—including meticulous double-outline coloring, boneless washes, and expressive freehand brushwork. The painting is both richly detailed and stylistically cohesive, showcasing each artist's individual strengths while achieving a seamless unity. Its open yet disciplined composition, grand scale, and powerful presence exemplify the aesthetic ambition and profound meaning expected of a thematically significant masterpiece.The exhibition will run through August 12, 2025.
President Yang Wanming Meets with Delegation from Japan's Animation, Film, and Publishing Sectors
On July 18, 2025, President Yang Wanming of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) met in Beijing with a delegation from Japan's animation, film, and publishing sectors, led by Ishikawa Kazuko, Chairperson of the Association of Japanese Animations.President Yang extended a warm welcome to Ishikawa Kazuko?on her return visit to China after six years and commended the delegation for their unique contributions to enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and Japan, as well as for promoting cultural exchange between the two countries. He noted that China and Japan are important neighbors, and that the bilateral relationship is currently at a crucial stage of improvement and development. Since the meeting between President Xi Jinping and Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba?in November last year, exchanges and dialogue across various sectors and at all levels have progressed steadily, bringing?in a series of positive developments.?Both history and current realities have repeatedly demonstrated that the sound and stable development of China-Japan relations serves the fundamental interests of two?countries and their peoples. It also contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity in Asia and beyond. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It is?hoped?that both sides could take this occasion as an opportunity to face history squarely and look to the future, remain committed to the principles enshrined in the four political documents between China and Japan, work jointly to advance the strategic relationship of mutual benefit, and build a constructive and stable bilateral relationship that meets the needs of the new era.President Yang noted that cultural and people-to-people exchanges have consistently played a vital role in the development of China-Japan relations. As a participating body on the Chinese side of the China-Japan High-Level Consultation Mechanism on People-to-People and Cultural Exchanges, the CPAFFC is committed to working closely with the Japan-China Cultural Exchange Association and visionary figures from Japan's cultural and media sectors.?The two sides should?uphold mutual respect and trust, promote mutual understanding and accurate perceptions between the two peoples; remain faithful to core principles while fostering innovation in the form and substance of cultural engagement?to jointly develop more outstanding cultural works; and promote youth exchanges to cultivate future leaders of China-Japan friendship. These efforts?will help forge deeper "bonds of the heart" among the younger generation through "new encounters"?and open a new chapter in bilateral people-to-people and cultural exchanges.Ishikawa Kazuko remarked that Japan and China share a long and rich history of cultural exchange, and that preserving and strengthening friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries is of great importance. The association stands ready to work closely with the CPAFFC and other Chinese counterparts to promote cultural exchanges through cultural products as a medium, deepen mutual understanding between the two peoples, and support the healthy development of Japan-China relations.Kadokawa Tsuguhiko, Honorary Chairman of the Kadokawa Culture Promotion Foundation, noted that China's animation and related cultural industries have made remarkable strides in recent years. Enjoying broad prospect for cooperation between the cultural sectors of Japan and China, the foundation?is committed to further advancing youth exchanges and practical collaboration between the two countries.Director-General Zhu Dan and Deputy Director-General Zhang Xiaoping?of the Department of East Asian Affairs of the CPAFFC, and Usui Masato, Minister at the Embassy of Japan in China, were present at the meeting.
Opening Ceremony of the Bond with Kuliang: 2025 China-U.S. Youth Choir Festival Held in Fuzhou, Fujian
On July 10, 2025, the opening ceremony of?the Bond with Kuliang: 2025 China-U.S. Youth Choir Festival was held?in Fuzhou, Fujian Province. The event is co-hosted by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and the People's Government of Fujian Province. Zhang Qingwei, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, attended the opening ceremony and delivered a keynote speech. Zhou Zuyi, Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee; Yang Wanming, President of the CPAFFC; Thomas Hemenway, a descendant of the Hemenway family and representative of “Kuliang Friends”; as well as representatives of Chinese and American youth, attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks. Xie Feng,?Chinese Ambassador to the United States of America, delivered his congratulations via video. Zhao Long, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and Governor of Fujian Province, presided over the opening ceremony. Other distinguished attendees included?Fujian provincial officials Zhou Lianqing and Wang Jinfu, and CPAFFC Vice President Shen Xin.In his keynote speech, Vice Chairman?Zhang Qingwei emphasized that, under the personal care and leadership of President Xi Jinping, the story of Kuliang has continued to be carried forward, and the century-old?legacy of Kuliang has been revived with renewed vitality. He expressed hope that youth from China and the United States would join hands—bonded by Bond with Kuliang, connected by cultural exchange, and inspired by friendship—to write a new chapter in the story of China-U.S. people-to-people ties.Zhou Zuyi described the Bond with Kuliang as a vivid symbol of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples. He pledged that Fujian would earnestly implement the spirit of President Xi Jinping's messages on the Bond with Kuliang initiative, and further expand youth and subnational exchanges with the U.S. to write more Kuliang stories and carry forward the legacy of Kuliang.President?Yang Wanming expressed hope that this Choir Festival would deepen mutual understanding and friendship among youth from two?countries, and that they would become advocates of dialogue, pioneers of cooperation, and torchbearers of enduring friendship. He encouraged them to contribute youthful energy to the sound development of China-U.S. relations, global peace and solidarity, and the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.In his video message,?Ambassador?Xie Feng emphasized that, as two major countries, peaceful coexistence between China and the United States is both a natural obligation and a shared responsibility for safeguarding global peace. He expressed hope that the youth of two?countries would sing for peace, build peace together, learn from one another, and foster mutual understanding. He urged them to become a vital force in shaping correct perceptions, enhancing mutual trust?and promoting world peace and development.?He called on the youth to empower China-U.S. relations with the vigor of youth, to strengthen people-to-people friendship through youthful enthusiasm, and to contribute to the shared future of humanity through the creativity and commitment of the younger generation.Thomas Hemenway?shared moving stories of his ancestor, Dr. Ruth Hemenway, who lived and worked alongside the Chinese people in the last century. He called for greater unity and mutual trust between the two peoples, advocating shared responsibility and greater contributions to global peace and development.Youth representatives from China and the U.S. affirmed that music is a universal language that transcends borders. Singing together allows young voices to advocate for peace. They pledged to carry forward the history and friendship between the two countries, using music to bridge cultures and build a better future together.At the opening ceremony, Guo Ningning, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Fujian Provincial Committee and Secretary of the CPC Fuzhou Municipal Committee, announced several new milestones in Fujian-U.S. friendship. These included:?the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Fujian People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and the U.S.-China Youth and Student Exchange Association;?the establishment of "Flying Tigers Friendship Schools"?between Fuzhou Pingdong?Middle School and schools in Iowa and California; and?the official launch of the bilingual Bond with Kuliang account on Xiaohongshu.?The opening ceremony culminated in a heartfelt joint performance of the song "Kuliang! Kuliang!"?by Chinese and American youth, bringing the audience to a moving finale.With the theme "Singing for Peace", the 2025 China-U.S. Youth Choir Festival brings together nearly 30 youth choirs and over 1,000 young singers from two?countries. It is the largest thematic youth exchange event held since the launch of the important initiative of "inviting 50,000 young Americans to China on exchange and study programs in the next five years".?Throughout the Choir Festival, a vibrant program of events will take place in Fuzhou and Beijing, including joint concerts, masterclasses, campus visits, street performances, cultural excursions, and interactive friendship-building activities.
President Yang Wanming Attends the 2025 SCO Forum on People-to-People Friendship and the Forum on Friendship Cities
From July 3 to 5, 2025, the 2025 SCO Forum on People-to-People Friendship and the Forum on Friendship Cities was successfully held in Shenyang. Shen Yueyue, Vice Chairperson of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and President of the Good-Neighborliness, Friendship and Cooperation Commission of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (hereinafter referred to as the GNFCC SCO), attended the opening ceremony and delivered the keynote speech. Hao Peng, Secretary of the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee and Chairman of the Standing Committee of the Liaoning Provincial People's Congress; Yang Wanming, President of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC); Marat Imankulov, State Secretary of Kyrgyzstan; Ziyafat Asgarov, Vice President of the Milli Majlis of the Republic of Azerbaijan; and Nurlan Yermekbayev, Secretary-General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, delivered their remarks. Wang Xinwei, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Liaoning Provincial Committee, Governor of Liaoning Province, presided over the opening ceremony.(President Yang Wanming delivers remarks at the opening ceremony)President Yang Wanming remarked that 2025 has been designated as the SCO's "China Year" and "SCO Year of Sustainable Development."?With the SCO Tianjin Summit just around the corner, it holds particular relevance and significance for China, as the rotating presidency, to host this forum under the theme "Deepening People-to-People Friendship, Advancing Sustainable Development." It represents a tangible step toward advancing the shared goal embodied in the initiative "SCO in Action."President Yang Wanming noted that the world is currently undergoing profound and accelerating changes unseen in a century, marked by prolonged geopolitical tensions and an unrelenting emergence of complex global challenges. Factors of instability and uncertainty are on the rise. Against this backdrop, the "Shanghai Spirit" advocated by the SCO is demonstrating renewed vitality and growing contemporary significance. More than ever before, we need to work together to overcome difficulties, strengthen people-to-people bonds, foster greater consensus among our peoples, and consolidate and elevate the SCO as a platform for cooperation, so as to jointly address global challenges. President Yang stated that the CPAFFC remains committed to working with all SCO countries to stand on the right side of history and uphold fairness and justice. The CPAFFC will continue to build bridges of mutual understanding to deepen people-to-people friendship; expand networks of friendship cities to enhance the quality and effectiveness of subnational cooperation; promote cultural exchange to advance shared SCO values; and foster youth engagement to cultivate a new generation of friendship ambassadors. These collective efforts will help usher the SCO into a new stage of high-quality development—one that is more united, collaborative, dynamic, and results-oriented.(President Yang Wanming meets with CPAFFC-invited guests and signs cooperation documents)During the forum, President Yang Wanming met with: Kahraman Sariev, Chairman of the Committee on Interethnic Relations and Friendly Ties with Foreign Countries under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan; Sabirov, Director of the SCO Center for People-to-People Diplomacy of Uzbekistan; Abidov, Chairperson of the Uzbekistan Friendship Cities Alliance; Guseva, Co-Chair of the All-Russian Association for the Development of Local Self-Government; Barsky, Vice President of the Russia-China Friendship Association; as well as the mayors of Yaroslavl, Arkhangelsk, Tomsk, Kogalym, and other Russian cities. President Yang signed separate memoranda of understanding (MOUs) on institutional cooperation with Guseva and Sabirov, and witnessed the signing of a MOU between the China-Central Asia Friendship Association and the Uzbekistan Friendship Cities Alliance.During the meetings, President Yang extended a warm welcome to?the guests and expressed appreciation for their participation in the forum at the invitation of the CPAFFC. He noted that their presence reflects the strong commitment of two countries' subnational governments and civil society to deepening friendship city cooperation and people-to-people exchanges under the SCO framework. President Yang emphasized that the SCO is the world's largest and most populous regional organization, whose influence, cohesion, and appeal continue to grow. It has become a model for a new type of international relations and regional cooperation. He called on all parties to deepen collaboration in fields such as people-to-people diplomacy, subnational engagement, cultural exchanges, and youth development within the SCO framework, in order to further strengthen the friendship among SCO countries and build a more solid foundation of public support for the organization's long-term development.The foreign guests unanimously acknowledged that the SCO Forum on People-to-People Friendship and the Forum on Friendship Cities has become a vital platform for dialogue and exchange among countries of the SCO Family. It has offered a meaningful opportunity for friendship organizations and international friendship cities to address pressing and relevant issues, and to pursue cooperation that aligns with the shared interests of their peoples. All parties should make full use of this platform to advance collaboration in fields such as people-to-people exchanges, subnational engagement, economy and trade, culture, sci-tech innovation, media, and youth, etc., thereby injecting fresh momentum into the building of a closer SCO community with a shared future.The SCO Forum on People-to-People Friendship and the Forum on Friendship Cities is a regular institutional cooperation initiative co-launched by the CPAFFC and the GNFCC SCO. The forum has been previously held in Wuhan, Hubei Province in 2021, and in Qingdao, Shandong Province in 2023. The 2025 edition of the forum was co-hosted by the GNFCC SCO, the CPAFFC, and the People's Government of Liaoning Province, and organized by the People's Government of Shenyang Municipality. The forum brought together around 400 participants, including senior representatives from the central governments and parliaments, leaders of friendship organizations and subnational governments, and delegates from the business, education, and media sectors across 22 SCO countries. Also in attendance were representatives from the SCO Secretariat; diplomatic envoys and officials from SCO countries based in China; and delegates from relevant Chinese institutions, including the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Health Commission, and the State Council Information Office. Additionally, representatives from 17 Chinese provinces, municipalities, autonomous regions, and related cities also participated in the forum.(Attending guests visit "Under the Same Blue Sky" the SCO Countries Art Exhibition of Children Artists)Prior to the opening ceremony, attending leaders and guests visited several exhibitions, including "Under the Same Blue Sky" the SCO Countries Art Exhibition of Children Artists, SCO Countries People-to-People Exchanges Achievements Exhibition, and Sci-tech Innovation and Advanced Manufacturing Achievements Exhibition. They then took photographs together as mementos. In addition to the opening and closing sessions, the forum featured three parallel sub-forums: the Forum on Friendship City Collaboration and Economic Partnerships & the Second Shenyang International Friendship Cities Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference, Forum on Youth-driven Technological Innovation and Advanced Manufacturing, and Light of Peace-Peace and Friendship Forum Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Participants also took part in a series of field visits and inspection tours arranged as part of the forum's agenda.(Signing ceremony for international friendship city agreements?among SCO countries)?The forum produced a number of significant outcomes. Two key outcome documents were released: the Consensus on actions for sustainable development of people-to-people exchanges among SCO countries, and the 2025 SCO Forum on People-to-People Friendship and the Forum on Friendship Cities Shenyang Initiative. A signing ceremony was held to formalize cooperation agreements among friendship organizations, international friendship cities, and in the areas of economic and trade cooperation. More than 30 cooperation documents were signed during the forum.
President Yang Wanming Leads Delegation to France
From June 20 to 24, 2025, at the invitation of the Regional Council of Brittany and the French Association for the Development of International Relations and Cooperation of Culture and Economy, President Yang Wanming of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) led a delegation on an official visit to France.During the visit, President Yang held a series of meetings with high-level officials and representatives from French government agencies, regional councils, municipal authorities, and civil society organizations. These included: Bruno Fuchs, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the French National Assembly; Laurence Scholaert, Director of the Department of Decentralized and Civil Society Cooperation, French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs; Frédéric Poizat, Vice President of France Urbaine and Deputy Mayor of Angers; Lo?g Chesnais-Girard, President of the Regional Council of Brittany; Laurence Kerlorc'h, Vice President of the Regional Council of Brittany; Xavier Bertrand, President of the Regional Council of Hauts-de-France; Nicolas Rossignol, Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Prefecture of Normandy; Fatouma Papillon, Deputy Mayor of Rennes; Bertrand Bérégovoy and Sébastien Saul, Deputy Mayors of Rouen; figures from France's educational and cultural exchange communities, including: Blandine Billant, Inspector-General of Chinese Language Instruction, Rennes School District; Blaise Thierrée, French Co-Director of the Confucius Institute in Brittany; Madeleine Renaudin, President of the Rennes Chapter of the French Federation of Franco-Chinese Friendship Associations; Alain Juffraire, Director of the French Association for the Promotion of International Economic and Cultural Cooperation; Vincent Lemarchand, Chair of the Rouen-Ningbo Committee. As part of the visit, President Yang attended several key events aimed at enhancing subnational and people-to-people exchanges between China and France. These included: The 40th Anniversary Celebration of Shandong-Brittany Friendly Relations; the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the China-France Friendship Garden in Rouen; and the Chinese Language Learning Showcase at Zola High School in Rennes.(President Yang met with Bruno Fuchs, Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the French National Assembly, and Laurence Scholaert, Director of the Department of Decentralized and Civil Society Cooperation, French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.)(President Yang met with Xavier Bertrand, President of the Regional Council of Hauts-de-France, and Lo?g Chesnais-Girard, President of the Regional Council of Brittany.)During his meetings in France, President Yang noted that, in recent years, China-France relations have maintained a steady and positive momentum. President Xi Jinping and President Emmanuel Macron have conducted reciprocal visits, and in 2024, the two countries jointly celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations. Most recently, the two heads of state held a phone conversation and reached important consensus on strengthening strategic coordination. China and France, as independent, autonomous, mature, and responsible major countries, have reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, upholding the authority of the United Nations, safeguarding international trade rules and the global economic order, and practicing the true multilateralism. Amid an increasingly complex and volatile international landscape, China and France are jointly committed to being a reliable force for international order, an open force for global economic growth, and a progressive force for advancing multilateral cooperation. Subnational cooperation is a vital pillar of China-France relations, embodying the dynamism and resilience of the comprehensive strategic partnership. The year 2025 marks the beginning of a new 60-year cycle in China-France relations. Guided by the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, the CPAFFC is committed to work closely with French subnational governments to deepen subnational cooperation based on mutual respect and win-win cooperation by resuming the China-France High-Level Forum on Subnational Government Cooperation, and further strengthening traditional areas of cooperation such as economy and trade, agriculture, and nuclear energy, while tapping into the potential of emerging sectors, including artificial intelligence, the digital economy, and green transition. Moreover, cultural exchanges and mutual understanding and friendship should be deepened?among youth, so as to contribute to a deeper and more substantive China-France relationship.(President Yang attended the 40th Anniversary Celebration of Shandong-Brittany Friendly Relations and the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the China-France Friendship Garden in Rouen.)French parliamentary and government officials spoke positively of the progress in France-China relations, stating that amid rising global uncertainty, instability, and ongoing regional conflicts, the importance of France-China cooperation has become more pronounced. The French side is ready to work with China to fulfill the responsibilities of major countries and jointly uphold global peace and stability. Regional leaders from Brittany and Hauts-de-France reaffirmed that French subnational governments are firmly opposed to trade wars and tariff barriers. In view of disruptions to global supply chains and shifting trade dynamics, the subnational governments of France attach great importance to the cooperation with China, stay confident in the future of collaboration with Chinese enterprises, and will proactively promote the two sides to exchange and cooperate?in areas such as agriculture and food products, automobile manufacturing, and new energy. Representatives from France's education, culture, and people-to-people communities stressed that, culture is a vital bridge connecting the hearts of the two peoples.The mutual construction of China-France friendship gardens is both a symbol of growing subnational ties and a window for deepening cultural mutual understanding. It is hoped that more measures be issued to facilicate people-to-people exchanges and deeper cooperation in culture, education, and youth programs, thus solidifying the foundation of public support for the bilateral relationship.During the visit, President Yang and his delegation held a working meeting with Chinese Ambassador to France Deng Li.
President Yang Wanming Leads Delegation to Frankfurt, Germany and Zurich, Switzerland
From June 17 to 18, 2025, at the invitation of the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and the Swiss-Chinese Association, President Yang Wanming of the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) led a delegation on an official visit to Frankfurt, Germany, and Zurich, Switzerland.In Frankfurt, President President Yang attended and addressed?the opening ceremony of the First German-Chinese City Summit, and held separate meetings with Thorsten Sch?fer-Gümbel, Chair of the GIZ Management Board; Mike Josef, Mayor of Frankfurt; and Jovanka Porsche, Chair of the European Global Neighbours Think Tank.In his remarks at the opening ceremony of the German-Chinese City Summit, President Yang highlighted President Xi Jinping's view that "the vitality of state-to-state relations lies at the subnational level." He emphasized that, subnational cooperation between China and Germany has long been underpinned by development-oriented engagement, mutual benefit, and cultural exchange, producing fruitful results and providing robust support for bilateral ties. Amid the complex dynamics of intertwined globalization and anti-globalization trends, and the growing contest between multilateralism and unilateralism, subnational governments in both countries should draw on past successes, uphold a spirit of partnership, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, and work together toward sustainable development. Such collaboration would contribute valuable subnational strength to the advancement of the all-round strategic partnership between China and Germany.(President Yang Wanming delivers remarks at the opening ceremony of the German-Chinese City Summit)During bilateral meetings, President Yang noted that, since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1972, China and Germany have upheld the principles of mutual respect, trust, and equality, consistently pursuing a path of mutually beneficial cooperation and shared development. Recently, President Xi Jinping had a phone call with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in which both leaders provided strategic guidance for the future of China-Germany relations. Their continued high-level communication reflects the importance both sides attach to deepening cooperation across all sectors. The German-Chinese City Summit was a timely and concrete step in implementing the important consensus reached by the two leaders at the subnational level. It is hoped that subnational governments in both countries would enhance dialogue and exchanges, expand the "circle of friends", and strengthen a "network of cooperation" based on mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, thereby injecting fresh impetus into the sound, stable, and sustainable development of China-Germany relations.Consul General Huang Yiyang of China in Frankfurt stated that subnational exchanges between China and Germany are gaining strong momentum, with increasingly active interactions among subnational governments. This fully demonstrates both the mutually beneficial nature of the cooperation and the strong willingness to engage. He underscored the broad prospects and growing demand for cooperation in fields such as economy and trade, culture, and sports. The Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Frankfurt will continue to serve as a bridge, making full use of the German-Chinese City Summit platform to deepen and enhance subnational collaboration.(President Yang Wanming meets with Thorsten Sch?fer-Gümbel, Chair of the GIZ Management Board)Thorsten Sch?fer-Gümbel said that multilateralism is currently under severe strain, making it all the more important for Germany and China to deepen dialogue and cooperation. The enthusiastic participation of subnational governments in the First German-Chinese City Summit reflects the close and results-oriented nature of bilateral subnational cooperation. The event sends a clear signal to the international community that China and Germany remain committed to working together to confront global challenges. Mayor Mike Josef expressed his gratitude to the organizers for selecting Frankfurt as the host city for the inaugural summit and spoke highly of the subnational cooperation between Chinese and German cities, noting that friendship city exchanges have played a vital role in enhancing mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples. It is hoped that more Chinese cities and enterprises strengthen exchanges and cooperation with Frankfurt in the future.The First German-Chinese City Summit was co-hosted by the CPAFFC, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), and the Consulate-General of the People's Republic of China in Frankfurt. President Yang Wanming, Consul General Huang Yiyang, GIZ Chair Thorsten Sch?fer-Gümbel, and Frankfurt Mayor Mike Josef attended and addressed?the opening ceremony. More than 100 participants from 10 Chinese cities—Shenyang, Qingdao, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Haikou, Chengdu, Kunming, Jinhua, Ningde, and Cixi—and 14 German cities—including Frankfurt, Bonn, Mannheim, and Stuttgart—took part in in-depth discussions under the theme "City partnerships for sustainable development: Tackling global challenges together and creating a sustainable future." During the plenary speech session, city representatives from both countries shared their experiences in addressing climate change, advancing low-carbon urban development, and promoting green transition, based on the specific strengths and contexts of their respective cities. In the roundtable discussions, municipal leaders and scholars exchanged views on building climate-resilient cities and explored innovative pathways and models for sustainable urban development. At the summit, President Yang, on behalf of the CPAFFC, and GIZ Chair Thorsten Sch?fer-Gümbel signed a Memorandum of Understanding. Additionally, Jinhua City in China's Zhejiang Province and Düren City in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany signed a friendship city agreement. Participants also conducted a site visit to the redevelopment project of Frankfurt's Osthafen (East Harbor) industrial zone, where they explored new ideas for smart integration of industry and city functions. The visit provided fresh inspiration for urban regeneration through mutual learning and exchange.(The CPAFFC and GIZ signed a Memorandum of Understanding)Consul General Huang Yiyang of China in Frankfurt attended the related events.During his visit to Zurich, President Yang Wanming attended the Seminar on Subnational and People-to-People Exchanges Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of China-Switzerland Diplomatic Relations. On the sidelines of the seminar, President Yang met with several friendly individuals from Swiss, including Andries Diener, President of the Swiss-Chinese Association and Thomas Wagner, Honorary President of the Swiss-Chinese Association, former Mayor of Zurich, and recipient of China's honorary title "People's Friendship Ambassador"; Werner E. Nievergelt, Vice President of the Swiss-Chinese Association and former Consul General of Switzerland in Guangzhou; Fritz Schluep, Co-General Manager of the Titoni Ltd.; and Ilona Schmiel, General Manager of the Zurich Tonhalle, as well as other distinguished individuals.In his meetings, President Yang noted that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1950, China and Switzerland have adhered to the principles of mutual respect and trust, and have cultivated a spirit of "equality, innovation, and win-win cooperation." In 2016, the leaders of two countries jointly decided to establish the China-Switzerland innovative strategic partnership, setting a clear course for the future of bilateral ties. President Yang commended the Swiss-Chinese Association for its 80 years of dedicated efforts in fostering mutual understanding and friendship between the Chinese and Swiss peoples. The CPAFFC is ready to work with all sectors of Swiss society, including the Swiss-Chinese Association, to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, unlock the full potential of cooperation in fields such as culture, innovation, and the green economy, and get well prepared for the upcoming China-Switzerland Forum on Sustainable Development, with a view to deepening and substantiating China-Switzerland relations and better benefiting the two peoples.The Swiss side expressed appreciation for the important role of the CPAFFC in promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of Switzerland and China, and conveyed their readiness to work closely with the Chinese side to further strengthen bilateral ties and contribute to deepening the friendship between the two countries.(President Yang Wanming attended the Seminar on Subnational and People-to-People Exchanges Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of China-Switzerland Diplomatic Relations)Minister-Counsellor Mao Jun, Charge d'Affaires ad interim of the Chinese Embassy in Switzerland, and Consul General Chen Yun of China in Zurich attended the related events.