China, Indonesia celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties, mark 70 years since Bandung Conference

China and Indonesia on Monday celebrated the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Asian-African Conference, also known as the Bandung Conference.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Defense Minister Dong Jun attended the celebratory event in Beijing, along with Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono and Defense Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said in a speech that China and Indonesia are good neighbors across the sea and good friends with a shared future.

Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 75 years ago, the traditional friendship between the two countries has withstood the test of time and grown stronger, and bilateral practical cooperation has achieved fruitful results, Wang said.

He said China-Indonesia ties, which have weathered rain and shine and gone through trials and tribulations, have achieved remarkable accomplishments and taught valuable lessons including adhering to the leadership of the heads of state, sticking to strategic independence, committing to mutual benefit and win-win results, and upholding fairness and justice.

Under the new circumstances, Wang said, China stands ready to work with Indonesia to jointly promote the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and the Bandung Spirit and push for the Global South to seek great strength through solidarity.

In his speech, Sugiono said that in a world fraught with uncertainties, greater unity between the two countries is needed more than ever before.

Indonesia is willing to work with China to promote bilateral relations towards a new era of common prosperity, he said.

China and Indonesia held the First Ministerial Meeting of Joint Foreign and Defense Ministerial Dialogue in the Chinese capital on Monday.

Bandung, capital city of Indonesia's West Java province, hosted the first Asian-African Conference in April 1955, marking the first time that countries in the Global South united to oppose imperialism and colonialism in defense of their sovereign rights and a more equitable world.

China, Indonesia celebrate 75 years of diplomatic ties, mark 70 years since Bandung Conference

The picturesque county of Yangshuo in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region has become a magnet for travelers from around the world during the five-day May Day holiday starting on Thursday.

One of the most popular destinations for tourists is the famed Ten-mile Gallery, a scenic stretch lined with dramatic limestone peaks that rise like an ink painting brought to life.

Along the roadside, the presence of foreign tourists adds a lively exotic vibe to the tranquil beauty of the travel destination.

Some of them pedal along riverside paths, while others drift leisurely on bamboo rafts, taking in the natural wonders.

At local food stalls in streets and at scenic spots, foreign visitors, intrigued by a traditional snack or delicacy, are often met with friendly stall owners who patiently explain how it's made and how to enjoy it.

For many foreign tourists, Yangshuo offers more than a feast for the eyes. It's a heartfelt connection to Chinese culture, kindness, and the enduring charm of life amid the lush mountains and lucid waters.

"I like the nature here. It's very beautiful and nice. The people here are very friendly and very welcoming," said Alain, a tourist from the Netherlands.

In Jiwodu Village along the Yulong River in Yangshuo, there are more than 30 hotels and homestays.

Surrounded by green mountains and flowing waters, and featuring traditional architecture with a rustic charm, the village has become a favorite for many foreign travelers.

"We've been having a very good time. We came here by boat on the river cruise and we've been enjoying the landscapes which are very beautiful. And people are very, very friendly which is something that we found to be very nice," said Natalie, a German tourist.

foreign tourists flock to south China for taste of scenic charm, hospitality