The main colors of the national flags of both China and Mexico shine on Guangzhou's landmark building, Canton Tower, on the evening of February 14, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.
The Consulate General of Mexico in Guangzhou also held a celebration activity on the afternoon right before the lighting event.
At the reception, the Consul General of Mexico in Guangzhou Amb. Carlos Giralt Cabrales introduced that China is Mexico's second-largest trading partner. China is also the third-largest destination for Mexican exports and Mexico's second-largest supplier, with exchanges exceeding $100 billion in 2021, according to China Daily.
Mr. Giralt Cabrales also emphasized that Mexico, in particular, will continue to keep close eyes on developments in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the possibilities that open up for exchanges in various fields.
He pointed out that when the conditions of the pandemic allow it, both regions will need to resume exchanges and visits in various sectors with renewed impetus, especially on issues related to education, scientific development, tourism; and above all, support contacts between the peoples.
Cang Feng, deputy director general of the Foreign Affairs Office of the People's Government of Guangdong Province, said that, "Led by the sound growth of bilateral ties, friendly exchanges and cooperation between Guangdong Province and Mexico have achieved substantial progress in recent years. Our two-way trade totaled 19.99 billion USD in 2021, a year-on-year increase of 42.8%, signaling strong growth momentum in our trade relations."
Mr. Cang also pointed out that Guangdong and its sister state, the State of Mexico, set a good example of solidarity against the pandemic. Guangdong donated medical supplies to the State of Mexico and offered assistance wherever the province could. Guangdong also held video conferences with three sister provinces/states in Latin America, Mexico State included, to share experience in COVID-19 response.
In 2002, Guangdong province built a friendly sister relationship with the State of Mexico. The two places have been carrying out bountiful cooperation and exchanges in economy, trade, agriculture, education, culture, and tourism, bringing tangible benefits to the people of both sides.
Mr. Cang added that with a firm resolve to deepen reform and open wider to the outside world, Guangdong is fully committed to developing the GBA, which will create more potential opportunities for cooperation with Mexico and countries around the world.
"Taking the 50th anniversary of China-Mexico diplomatic relations as a great opportunity, we are ready to work hard with our Mexican counterparts to consolidate the sound growth momentum in economic and trade cooperation, to further enrich our partnership in various fields, and make greater contribution to the development of our bilateral ties," Mr. Cang said.
Author: Ariel
Video: Axin
Editor: Wing, Monica, Jerry
