An exchange and promotion event took place in Zibo, Shandong province, on May 27, as part of the ongoing 7th China–CEEC Local Leaders' Meeting and 2026 Shandong International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Exchange Week. The event gathered local officials, diplomats, representatives from international friendship cities and institutions, business groups, and local enterprises to explore new avenues for cooperation.

Ma Xiaolei, Party secretary of Zibo, said the city has been expanding its high-standard opening-up through cross-industry cooperation, enhancing its business environment, and bolstering support for international partnerships. Ma expressed hope that Zibo, as a long-standing friend to many attending cities and countries, could help bring more partners together and create new opportunities for practical cooperation.

Lu Fashen, an official from the Shandong Foreign Affairs Office, said Shandong is working to become a new highland for opening up. He noted that Zibo's international friendship week, now in its third year, shows how local foreign affairs work can support high-quality development.

According to international attendees, Zibo's openness, innovative spirit, and practical approach make it a reliable partner. They expressed hope for deeper cooperation in trade, industry, technological innovation, and people-to-people exchanges.

Sinisa Berjan, ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina to China, Peng Posa, governor of Svay Rieng province of Cambodia, Tomasz Rawski, Mayor of Warka, Poland, and representatives from the Thailand Consulate-General in Qingdao, the London Stock Exchange Beijing Representative Office, and the UK–China Business Development Center also attended the event.

Zibo hosts its third exchange and promotion event for future cooperation and high-quality development during the 2026 International Friendship Cities Cooperation and Exchange Week. [Photo/Bolan News]