The China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024 was grandly held in Kunming, attracting representatives from worldwide cities. During the conference, Mr. Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South City in Sarawak, Malaysia, said that Kunming, as a major city in Southwest China, has become an essential bridge for city cooperation in the Southeast Asian region due to its unique geographical location and rich cultural resources.

Mr. Wee Hong Seng, Mayor of Kuching South City, Sarawak, Malaysia. Photo by Yang Yan

The Charm of the "Spring City" Boosts International Friendship City Cooperation

Since Kunming and Kuching South City established a friendship city relationship in 2014, cooperation between the two regions has deepened. Mayor Wee emphasized that as the hometown of Zheng He, Kunming's friendship with Kuching South City has deep historical ties but also offers new opportunities for international cooperation in the modern era.

Kunming's pleasant climate and unique city charm bring Mayor Wee joy every time he visits. The city's perpetual spring-like weather is a major highlight for him. He candidly shared that this is his third time visiting Kunming for official activities, saying, "Each visit has been work-oriented, leaving little opportunity to enjoy Kunming’s scenery fully. I hope to have more free time on my next visit to explore the city more deeply."

He also noted Kunming's growing prominence on the international stage, especially as the China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024 greatly enhanced the city's international influence. "The conference has attracted representatives from many countries, fostering in-depth exchanges and experience-sharing, thereby raising Kunming's status in the international community. This cooperation not only allows the world to know more about Kunming but also lays a stronger foundation for Kunming's trade and economic cooperation with other countries and regions."

Mr. Huang Hong Sheng, Mayor of Kuching South City, is being interviewed. Photo by Yang Yan

Cultural and Resource Integration Leading Kunming's New Trends in International Tourism Cooperation

When asked how Kunming can use its rich tourism resources to promote international cooperation, Mayor Wee highlighted the city's remarkable achievements in the international tourism sector. He believes Kunming's cultural heritage and unique ethnic characteristics are among its greatest strengths. The cultural and ethnic similarities between Kunming and regions in Southeast Asia and South Asia position Kunming as a key player in tourism and cultural exchanges within these regions.

Mayor Wee specifically mentioned that Kunming's cuisine, hotels, and tourism infrastructure are of international standard and that direct flights to many countries make it more accessible to international visitors. He was particularly impressed by Kunming's Dounan Flower Market, saying, "The flower market offers high-quality flowers at very affordable prices. If more countries knew about such competitive prices and quality, it would attract many international tourists."

Moreover, Mayor Wee emphasized that friendship city partnerships are not merely about signing documents but building strong trust and cooperation bonds through real exchanges and interactions. "The essence of friendship cities goes far beyond written agreements; the true significance lies in fostering genuine understanding and mutual development between the people of both cities through tangible cooperation and communication." As international friendship and city cooperation deepen, Mayor Wee is confident that Kunming City and Kuching South City will continue progressing towards an even brighter future together.

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(Editors: Ines, Reena)