A consultation focusing on the themes and topics of the seventh Hongqiao International Economic Forum, a significant component of the China International Import Expo, was held in Johannesburg, South Africa on April 12.

Also serving as a symposium on global openness and China-Africa cooperation, the event was attended by around 40 representatives from the African nation's government, industry, academia, and research sectors.

A consultation focusing on the themes and topics of the seventh Hongqiao International Economic Forum is held in Johannesburg, South Africa on April 12. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

Yu Zirong, vice-president of the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, said that China-Africa cooperation is fruitful, and the Hongqiao forum is an ideal platform to showcase the achievements of China and Africa's cooperation.

He suggested that the upcoming seventh Hongqiao forum should focus on emerging trends in global openness, global economic governance, technology and future industries, and climate change and green development.

Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, chief executive of the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA), said the forum's core focus on global openness reflects the current trend towards enhanced global economic governance.

Sidiropoulos suggested that the forum should prioritize topics on climate and energy transition cooperation, agriculture and food security, technological upgrading, value chains, and digital infrastructure.

Other experts recommended that the forum's agenda encompass topics such as promoting and facilitating China-Africa trade and investment, industrialization in developing countries, and trade financing for developing nations. This broad scope aims to showcase the Hongqiao forum's role as a diverse and inclusive international public good.

Furthermore, the attending experts and scholars expressed their intention to participate in this year's Hongqiao forum.

The CIIE working team also visited SAIIA to discuss South-South cooperation and explore opportunities to strengthen future collaboration between the two parties.

Attendees share their insights at the symposium. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

By Zhao Guangmei