CIIE facilitates cultural exchange

The China International Import Expo (CIIE) has played the role of not only a global trade event, but also a platform for cultural exchange, as it brings together diverse cultures from around the world, weaving a rich and vibrant tapestry of global unity.

At the seventh CIIE held in Shanghai from Nov 5 to 10, Eleonora Crystal, a Czech brand and a seven-time participant, has expanded its exhibition space to the largest ever and plans to release nearly 100 new products at the expo, setting a new record. Its new crested ibis series is inspired by China.

The crested ibis, once near extinction, has been preserved through China's efforts, according to one of its managers, who also said that the series is created to raise awareness about environmental protection and the company is trying to blend traditional Chinese cultural elements with Czech craftsmanship.

Another highlight at the CIIE is a rope knot accessory adorned with dragon and phoenix elements, showcasing the unique charm of intangible cultural heritage.

Decorations on the modern cheongsam, or the qipao -- a traditional wearing of Chinese women, have also attracted much attention at the expo. Wu Huifang, an inheritor of traditional Hangzhou-style cheongsam, would love to blend exotic elements into the accessory.

"At this year's CIIE, we have seen many cultural elements from other countries. We would like to incorporate these into innovations in our intangible cultural heritage to better present Chinese culture and craftsmanship to the world," said Wu.

In addition to cultural and craft innovations, a waterless printing and dyeing machine shown in China Pavilion reflects China's green transformation in the textile industry.

"This machine has been very well-received by both domestic and international customers. In just over a day, we have sold more than 50 machines, mainly to European and Southeast Asian countries. This expo has been very successful for us," said Li Jianhua, chairman of Hangzhou Wensli Silk Culture Co., Ltd.

This year, the expo also features 200 cultural performances from around the world, providing a rich assortment of global traditions.

Visitors can immerse themselves in modern and contemporary art, experience a variety of foreign customs, and delve into historical explorations, making the CIIE a unique celebration of cultural diversity.

CIIE facilitates cultural exchange

China and Russia held the 19th round of their annual strategic security consultation in Beijing on Tuesday, with both sides exchanging in-depth views on major issues of common concern related to strategic security.

The meeting was co-chaired by Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, and Sergei Shoigu, secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council.

Noting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Russia, Wang said that under the leadership of the two heads of state, China-Russia relations have maintained sound, stable momentum amid changes in global affairs.

Both sides adhere to the principles of lasting good-neighborliness and friendship, comprehensive strategic coordination, and mutually beneficial cooperation, all of which serve the fundamental interests of the two peoples, Wang observed.

He said that China and Russia have supported each other firmly on issues concerning their core interests, deepened political mutual trust and promoted practical cooperation, creating a new model for relations between neighboring major countries, and significantly promoting solidarity and cooperation within the Global South.

Guided by the consensus reached by the two heads of state, the China-Russia strategic security consultation mechanism should strengthen coordination on strategic and overarching issues related to the security and development interests of both sides, Wang said.

Wang also called for enhanced exchange and multilateral coordination between the two countries amid the changing international landscape, so as to provide a strong guarantee for the high-level development momentum of China-Russia relations and ensure that the two countries work together to maintain global strategic stability.

Shoigu said that Russia is willing to work with China to implement the consensus reached by the two heads of state, and enhance bilateral cooperation and coordination within multilateral mechanisms such as the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, aiming to promote the continuous development of Russia-China relations.

China, Russia hold annual strategic security consultation