A delegation of 18 ambassadors and diplomats from 11 Pacific islands and Caribbean countries visited Chaozhou and Shantou in Guangdong province to explore cooperation in the marine economy and discuss people-to-people exchanges from March 14 to 18.

Organized by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC) and the Guangdong People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, the visit brought together representatives from the Bahamas, Barbados, Fiji, Guyana, Jamaica, Micronesia, Nauru, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Suriname and Tonga.

They attended a symposium on island development in Nan'ao county, Shantou, where officials, academics and business representatives discussed marine aquaculture, offshore wind power and marine ranching.

Representatives attend a symposium on island development. [Photo/gdfao.gov.cn]

At the meeting, Guangdong officials outlined the province's progress in external exchanges, trade and cultural cooperation with Pacific islands and Caribbean countries, and expressed hope for deeper practical cooperation. Diplomats said they looked forward to expanding ties with Guangdong in agriculture, fisheries, culture and tourism, climate response and new energy.

During the visit, the delegation also toured local companies, historical sites and cultural venues, gaining firsthand insight into Chaoshan's industrial development and cultural heritage.