US business leaders at the ongoing 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai have emphasized the stabilizing role of trade between the U.S. and China relations, stressing the importance of continued collaboration to navigate global challenges. Kevin Kolevar, vice president of Global Policy and Government Affairs at Dow Chemical Company, highlighted that the business relationship between the two countries is not only crucial for bilateral ties but also plays a key role in global stability.
"What we know as Dow is that the bilateral relationship between the United States and China is critical, and that business relationship between the two countries is a fundamental stabilizing force, not just for the bilateral relationship between China and the U.S., but also the U.S. and other countries around the world. So, we work very hard to make sure that the business community is a positive voice for moderation in the political environment that we see today. And [there is] a need to collaborate for business reason and other reasons," said Kolevar.
Echoing this sentiment, Jerry Felton, CEO of Melaleuca, a U.S.-based online wellness company that has been operating in China for more than two decades, emphasized the importance of maintaining a constructive trade relationship despite occasional conflicts.
"Regarding U.S. and China relations, specifically in the trade arena, I think there's always great opportunity. Of course, there is conflict and there is disagreement, but in the end, I think two great partners and two leaders of the global industry, they [should] come together, and figure out a way. For us, as an American company operating in China - we've been here for 22 years, and China continues to open its doors, and as long as we are providing great service and great value, that relationship will continue to strengthen," said Felton.
The CIIE, which runs from Tuesday to Sunday, has attracted 3,496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions this year. The event also marks a significant milestone with the participation of 297 Fortune Global 500 companies and leading industry players from around the world.
US business leaders at CIIE highlight stabilizing role of US-China trade
As the Qingming Festival approaches this Friday, various traditional folk activities have been held across China, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the occasion.
With a 2,500-year history, Qingming Festival, or the Festival of Pure Brightness, observed in early April, uniquely combines ancestral worship with the celebration of spring. Falling on the 15th day after the spring equinox, this ritual-rich observance reflects China's enduring values of ancestral veneration and inspires deep introspection about what gives life meaning.
In Sijia Village, Huayin City, northwest China’s Shaanxi Province, a unique swing festival is held to mark the occasion. Eighteen different types of traditional swings, such as the spinning wheel swing, the Bagua swing reminiscent of a rotating carousel, and the balance swing designed for two people, have attracted many visitors.
Historically, Sijia Village served as a military post guarding the strategic Tongguan pass, a former mountain pass and fortress located south of the confluence of the Wei and Yellow Rivers. The swing tradition in the village has its origins in military training exercises like climbing and river crossing. The local swing culture further developed as regional trade flourished, eventually evolving into the "swing festival" that continues today.
"It's very exciting and tests your skill, endurance, and most importantly, your arm strength. You need to maintain balance," said Qu Xiangyang, a visitor.
In Rudong County, Nantong City, east China's Jiangsu Province, another traditional Qingming activity takes place - kite flying.
Flying kites as a way of making wishes is an age-old Qingming custom in this region. As a result, the Qingming Festival in Nantong is also known as the "Kite Festival."
The local Banyao whistling kite making skills is listed as one of the first national intangible cultural heritage items.
According to a folk culture expert, people traditionally write the names of diseases or misfortunes on paper, attach it to a kite, and release it into the sky. This practice is believed to drive away illness and disaster, while also serving as a way to make wishes.
In south China's Guangdong Province, a large tug-of-war competition is underway in Maoming City. Teams from different towns and streets are competing, attracting many locals to cheer on their teams.
Tug-of-war, which originated during the late Spring and Autumn period (770 BC - 476 BC), became part of Qingming customs during the Tang Dynasty (618-907). Emperor Xuanzong of the Tang Dynasty once organized large-scale tug-of-war competitions for the festival.
"Tug-of-war became very popular in the Tang Dynasty, even emerging as the national sport. It originated in the Jingchu region and later spread across the country. In ancient Lingnan (Southern China), tug-of-war games were a common tradition. Through these events, people seek to pray for peace, prosperity, and abundant harvests," said Yao Guojun, vice dean of the College of Arts and Law, Guangdong University of Petrochemical Technology.
Traditional folk activities held for Qingming Festival