1. Xiamen, Pakistan join hands to fight coronavirus
Xiamen, Fujian province announced that it would donate 400,000 yuan ($56,560) to help Pakistan fight the novel coronavirus outbreak during a video meeting between the city's foreign affairs office and Naghmana Hashmi, Pakistan's ambassador to China on May 20.
Li Xiaoping, director of the Xiamen foreign affairs office, said that Pakistan and China are strong partners. Pakistan was quick to support China by sending coronavirus-related donations and assistance to the country in the early stages of the epidemic.
Public life in Xiamen is now gradually returning to normal as the epidemic subsides, and locals are eager to return the favor now that Pakistan is in need.
Officials in Xiamen, Fujian show solidarity with Pakistan during a video meeting with Naghmana Hashmi, Pakistan's ambassador to China, on May 20. [Photo/WeChat account: XIAMENFAO]
2. Xiamen participates in China-India online tea party
The foreign affairs office of Xiamen, Fujian province took part in an online tea party hosted by the Chinese Consulate General in Kolkata and the Confederation of Young Leaders of India on May 21 to celebrate the first International Tea Day and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and India.
During the video meeting, Chen Hongying, an official of the Xiamen foreign affairs office, briefed attendees on Xiamen's ties with India.
She said the city will make full use of its advantageous location as a strategic fulcrum along the Maritime Silk Road to promote cooperation with India in trade, film and television, and sports.
Representatives of the Xiamen foreign affairs office attend a China-India online tea party by video on May 21. [Photo/WeChat account: XIAMENFAO]
3. Xiamen, Nice celebrate sixth year of partnership
May 22 marked the sixth anniversary of cooperative relations between Xiamen, Fujian province, and Nice, a city in southeastern France.
Li Xiaoping, director of Xiamen's foreign affairs office, held a video meeting with Rudy Salles, vice-mayor of Nice, in celebration of the special day. They discussed the novel coronavirus outbreak and furthering bilateral cooperation.
Li thanked Nice for its support during the epidemic and showed solidity with Nice by stating that the people of Xiamen hope to work with Nice to overcome the health crisis.
Li Xiaoping (front middle), director of Xiamen's foreign affairs office, talks with Rudy Salles, vice-mayor of Nice, during a video call on May 22. [Photo/WeChat account: XIAMENFAO]
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
