By Jin Lu

On the afternoon of February 14, the delegates attending 31st ASEAN-China Senior Officials' Consultation arrived at the final stop of their Ningbo trip—Tianyige Museum. As a key dialogue mechanism between China and ASEAN countries, the consultation not only focuses on regional cooperation but also brings increased international attention to Ningbo.

Let's examine how the delegates, over their three-day visit, engaged with key industries, cultural heritage, and emerging opportunities that showcase Ningbo's dynamic growth and global influence.

Lantern Festival Comes to Life with Ningbo's Intangible Heritage

On the evening of February 12, the delegates arrived at Laowaitan, the vibrant heart of downtown Ningbo, where they were immersed in cultural activities. A special event featured artisans demonstrating traditional crafts, leaving the participants deeply impressed. "These handicrafts are exquisite; each piece carries profound cultural significance," remarked a participant from Malaysia.

A highlight of the evening was the lantern riddle contest, a quintessential element of Lantern Festival celebrations. The venue was adorned with red lanterns, each displaying a riddle in Chinese and English. The delegates eagerly participated, some contemplating the puzzles thoughtfully, while others engaged in animated discussions.

"This is my first time celebrating Lantern Festival in Ningbo, and it's truly special. The fusion of traditional culture with the modern cityscape is unforgettable," said Karina, a delegate from Indonesia.

In the corridor outside the 31st ACSOC venue, the Impressions of Ningbo photo exhibition offered a comprehensive look at the city's rich history, culture, and economic development. Showcasing intangible cultural heritage alongside natural beauty, the exhibition provided delegates with a deeper understanding of Ningbo's unique allure as they anticipated the next phase of their visit.

A Hub of Growth and Global Connectivity

On the afternoon of February 13, the delegates visited the Ningbo City Exhibition Hall, where they explored the exhibits, gaining a tangible sense of the city's progress.

Among the exhibits, a dynamic model captured the participants' attention. It depicted the bustling activity of Ningbo Zhoushan Port, with brightly illuminated container terminals surrounded by models of ultra-large ships, vividly illustrating the vibrancy of the world's busiest port.

The "Beautiful Ningbo" exhibit offered a compelling glimpse into the city's vast potential. Immersive projections highlighted Eastern New Town's soaring skyscrapers, massive shipping terminals, and a thriving urban landscape, all reflecting Ningbo's dynamism and rapid development.

"Thailand also has many ports. We could adopt Ningbo Zhoushan Port's best practices, which would enhance China-Thailand cooperation in port operations and logistics, further strengthening our economic ties," said Akkanit, a participant from Thailand.

A Glimpse into Ningbo's Industrial Strength

Upon entering the Geely 5G Smart Factory, the delegates were awed by its cutting-edge technology. On the expansive, well-lit factory floor, robotic arms seamlessly assembled car bodies, automated guided vehicles zoomed around, and intelligent production lines operated with remarkable efficiency.

At FOTILE Group's product showroom, the delegates were impressed by a wide range of smart kitchen appliances, including stoves with temperature control, all-in-one steam and bake cooking machines, and highly efficient range hoods.

"In our country, many products are imported from China, including cars and home appliances. This is my first visit to a Chinese factory, and I can see that these products are not only powerful but also beautifully designed," said Chhuon, a delegate from Cambodia.

As ASEAN countries accelerate industrialization with a focus on high-end manufacturing and green energy, Ningbo has much to offer, particularly its expertise in sectors such as electric vehicles, smart home appliances, and green technology—opening up significant opportunities for collaboration.

"Ningbo's manufacturing sector is vast and highly advanced, leaving a lasting impression on me," said Akkanit. "We look forward to deepening cooperation with Ningbo companies to collectively drive the advancement of the regional manufacturing industry."

Bridging Cultures: A Legacy of Learning and Exchange

As the final stop of the tour, the delegates visited the Tianyige Museum, an architectural gem that embodies the refined craftsmanship of traditional southern Chinese design and Ningbo's longstanding tradition of book collecting. Many delegates participated in a hands-on woodblock printing experience, carefully applying ink to carved blocks, then pressing paper onto the surface to reveal intricate patterns. Beyond appreciating the charm of Chinese culture, the visit also highlighted Ningbo's commitment to preserving its cultural legacy.

From economic and trade exchanges to cultural dialogue, from industrial collaboration to technological innovation, cooperation between Ningbo and ASEAN countries has yielded meaningful results and holds vast potential for the future.

With shared aspirations for development, a deepening sense of friendship, and a strong commitment to collaboration, the ties between Ningbo and ASEAN nations continue to grow stronger—reinforced by every exchange, every partnership, and every conversation.