On November18,China International Friendship Cities Conference 2024 grandly opened in Kunming, bringing together city representatives from around the globe to discuss opportunities for collaboration. During the conference, Mr. Wanchai Chongsuttanamanee, Mayor of Chiang Rai, Thailand, expressed high praise for Kunming and highlighted the deep ties of regional cooperation and cultural exchange between the two cities. His remarks underscored Kunming’s significant role on the international stage and added to the growing anticipation for the future development of this "Spring City".

Mr. Wanchai Chongsuttanamanee, Mayor of Chiang Rai, Thailand. (Photo by Yang Yan)

"Kunming is One of the Best Cities in the World"

In an interview, Mayor Wanchai Chongsuttanamanee highlighted Kunming's unique place in his heart. Having visited the city multiple times, he is deeply impressed by its beauty and development. "Kunming is one of the best cities in the world. With its eternal spring, pleasant climate, cool summers, and mild winters, Kunming is truly remarkable. The city is adorned with vibrant flowers and boasts a wide variety of floral species, fully deserving its title as the 'City of Flowers'." The mayor further noted that Chiang Rai, known as Thailand's own "City of Flowers", also takes pride in its natural landscapes and floral diversity. Many of Chiang Rai's flowers are sourced directly from Kunming, a connection that not only fosters economic cooperation but also symbolizes the friendship between the two cities.

In addition, Mayor Wanchai highly praised Kunming's rich historical and cultural heritage. As the province with the largest number of ethnic minorities in China, Yunnan showcases remarkable diversity and inclusiveness, giving Kunming a unique edge in engaging with Southeast Asian countries. The ethnic cultures of Yunnan share deep historical ties with Southeast Asian nations, tracing back thousands of years. "Kunming is a truly exceptional city. It is not only a crucial hub for economic development but also a core center of cultural exchange. This profound cultural foundation makes Kunming stand out in international cooperation," remarked Mayor Wanchai.

Mr. Wanchai Chongsuttanamanee, Mayor of Chiang Rai, Thailand, is being interviewed. (Photo by Yang Yan)

Kunming's Role as a Bridge to Southeast Asia Becomes Increasingly Prominent

Discussing Kunming's future in international development, Mayor Wanchai fully affirmed the city's role as a regional hub. He noted that Kunming, with its unique geographic position, is emerging as a vital gateway for China to Southeast Asia and South Asia. Yunnan shares borders with Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam, and as the provincial capital, Kunming serves as a crucial bridge linking China with Southeast Asian countries. "Kunming is not only the central city of Southwest China but also has the potential to grow into a key bridge to ASEAN and an important gateway to the world," he remarked.

Mayor Wanchai emphasized the critical role of transportation infrastructure in fostering regional cooperation for Kunming. Reflecting on the successful construction of the Kunming-Bangkok Highway, he noted how this route has significantly boosted economic exchanges between the two cities. He also highlighted the launch of the China-Laos Railway, describing it as a vital step toward enhancing regional connectivity and providing new opportunities for links between Kunming and northern Thailand. "We hope that the China-Laos Railway will eventually extend to Chiang Rai, creating a closer transportation network with Kunming. Additionally, the opening of a direct flight route between Kunming and Chiang Rai would greatly facilitate exchanges between the two cities," he added with anticipation.

Regarding the construction of the China-Thailand Railway, Mayor Wanchai conveyed the high expectations of the Thai people. He emphasized that the railway is not merely an infrastructure project but also a crucial link for deepening economic and cultural exchanges between the two countries. "We hope the railway project will be completed soon. It will inject new vitality into connectivity between the two nations while further cementing Kunming's position as a regional transportation hub," he remarked.

In addition to transportation, Mayor Wanchai highlighted the significance of technological innovation and educational collaboration in Kunming's internationalization efforts. He admired Kunming's recent advancements in high-tech industries, environmental protection, and education. Educational cooperation between Chiang Rai and Kunming is already underway, with many students from Chiang Rai learning Chinese and expressing interest in pursuing further studies in Kunming. Mayor Wanchai hopes the two cities will continue strengthening exchanges in education and technology, fostering deeper cooperation through the sharing of talent and expertise.

Looking ahead, Mayor Wanchai expressed great optimism about Kunming's future. As the "Spring City", Kunming is renowned not only for its unique natural advantages but also for its openness and inclusivity, which make it a key stage for international collaboration. "Kunming has the potential to become a central city in Southeast Asia—not just as a geographic hub but also as a bridge for cultural and economic cooperation. This city is destined to shine even brighter on the international stage," he remarked.

Click here to view the Chinese report

(Editors: Amy, Jennifer)