The opening ceremony of Binzhou International Friendship Cities Day took place on Thursday, emphasising strengthened economic and trade collaboration to promote mutual growth and development among partner cities.

The event highlights Binzhou’s commitment to fostering international relations and boosting regional prosperity.

Liu Guangzheng, Deputy Secretary-General of the Binzhou Municipal People's Government, hosted the event, while Song Yongxiang, Secretary of the CPC Binzhou Municipal Committee, Asefa Endeshaw Desta, Minister at the Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, and Li Hong, Deputy Director-General of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the CPC Shandong Provincial Committee, also delivered speeches.

In his remarks, Song Yongxiang, Secretary of the CPC Binzhou Municipal Committee, said that President Xi Jinping has put forward the important concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind, launching global initiatives for development, security, and civilisation.

Song added that President Xi emphasises the need to foster the spirit of "crossing the river in the same boat" to promote the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Song also conveyed his sincere appreciation to the organisers and extended his thanks to all the participants for their attendance.

Later, a friendship signing ceremony, hosted by Pei Mei, Secretary of the Party Leadership and Director-General of the Foreign Affairs Office of the Binzhou Municipal People's Government, was held.

During the event, several groups, including Du Yujie, Deputy Mayor of the Binzhou Municipal People's Government, signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with Saverne, France, and Dire Dawa, Ethiopia.

Besides, a letter of intent was signed to establish a friendly cooperation agreement with Mekelle, Ethiopia.

Following this, several parallel activities were also held at Sister Cities Park, including the planting of the 'Friendship Tree', a Sister Cities Photo Exhibition, and Traditional Chinese Culture experiences such as a tea ceremony, traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis and therapy, and calligraphy displays, attended by foreign guests and city leaders.