Representatives from the member organizations of the Shenzhen People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, along with guests from various institutions and social organizations, convened at the Longhua International Cooperation Center (LICC) in Longhua District on Dec. 13 for the association’s annual meeting and an exchange session.

The exchange session, which concentrated on the development of international organizations and multilateral cooperation platforms, featured eight guests who delivered keynote speeches.

A guest delivers a keynote speech at the annual meeting of the Shenzhen People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries on Dec. 13. Photos by Lin Songtao

The annual meeting and the exchange session aimed to optimize the utilization of international organizations, multilateral cooperation platforms, and nongovernmental and social forces to foster the internationalization of Shenzhen, enhance people-to-people diplomacy, and bolster the city’s international sister city program.

Cao Saixian, director general of the Shenzhen Foreign Affairs Office and president of the association, presented an overview of the association’s achievements in 2024, international organizations and multilateral cooperation platforms in Shenzhen, and efforts to establish new international organizations.

Cao emphasized that Shenzhen remains committed to advancing urban internationalization, enhancing public services for international organizations and expats in Shenzhen, and offering support to local institutions and enterprises in their cooperation with international organizations.

Lan Tao, director general of the Longhua District Party Committee (Government) Office, provided insights into the LICC and its collaborative efforts with international organizations. He affirmed Longhua’s commitment to embracing openness and deepening partnerships with international organizations.

A scene at the event.

LICC is a comprehensive international exchange and cooperation platform that aims to deepen close exchanges and practical cooperation between Shenzhen and cities worldwide in various fields such as the economy, trade, technology, and culture.