NANNING, Sept. 12 -- "Shared benefits," "common destiny" and "inclusive growth" were some of the most frequently mentioned phrases at the 14th China-ASEAN Expo that opened Tuesday.
With the theme of "Co-Building the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, Promoting Regional Economic Integration through Tourism," the expo is expected to inject new vitality to the ancient trade route and enhance mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
"While the Belt and Road Initiative was proposed by China, it brings benefits to the whole world," Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli said at the opening ceremony of the expo which is taking place in Nanning, capital of south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
This year marks the 50th anniversary of ASEAN, and next year marks the 15th anniversary of China-ASEAN strategic partnership.
Over the past years, the two sides have already made big strides in various areas including trade, policy, infrastructure and people-to-people exchanges. Deeper, broader collaboration will bring the ties even closer.