Nanning Hosts Global Mayors Dialogue for ASEAN Collaboration

Strengthening Ties Between Chinese and ASEAN Cities

Nanning, the capital of Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region in South China, is hosting the Global Mayors Dialogue – Nanning from January 15 to 18, 2025. This event aims to enhance exchanges and cooperation among cities in China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) across various sectors, including economy, trade, culture, and tourism.

Nanning’s Role as a Key Gateway

As the closest Chinese provincial capital to ASEAN nations and the permanent site for the China-ASEAN Expo, Nanning is pivotal in promoting openness and collaboration between China and ASEAN countries. The city has evolved into a significant tourism hub, facilitating travel between China and ASEAN destinations while welcoming visitors from the region.

Significant Growth in Inbound Tourism

Remarkable Increase in Visitor Numbers

Recent statistics reveal that Nanning welcomed 151,500 inbound overnight visitors from January to November 2024, marking a substantial year-on-year increase of 122.06%. Notably, over half of these travelers originated from ASEAN countries.

Visa Policy Enhancements Fueling Growth

The introduction of a 240-hour transit visa-free policy in December 2024 has streamlined entry for international tourists, further boosting expectations for continued growth in inbound tourism through Nanning.

Cultural and Tourism Initiatives

Strategies to Enhance International Presence

To bolster its global standing, Nanning’s cultural and tourism authorities have implemented strategies termed “going abroad” and “inviting in.” These initiatives have successfully attracted over 700 travel professionals from ASEAN nations such as Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia to explore collaborative opportunities in cultural and tourism sectors.

High-Profile Events Strengthening Cultural Ties

In addition to these efforts, Nanning hosted several prominent cultural events in 2024, including the Melody of Spring transnational Spring Festival Gala, the China-ASEAN Film Festival, and the China-ASEAN (Nanning) Theater Week. These events not only elevated Nanning’s international profile but also fostered deeper cultural exchanges and tourism partnerships within the region.

Establishing Strong Connections with ASEAN Cities

Sister-City Relationships Enhance Cooperation

Nanning has formed sister-city relationships with 10 ASEAN cities, including Bac Giang in Vietnam and Ipoh in Malaysia. Additionally, consulates from six ASEAN countries—Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar, and Malaysia—operate within Nanning, reinforcing its status as a crucial connector for tourism.

Geographic Advantage as a Tourism Gateway

Leveraging its strategic location, Nanning serves as a vital gateway for tourism to ASEAN. All capitals of ASEAN countries are accessible within a four-hour flight from the city. Recently, Nanning Wuxu International Airport launched new routes to various destinations including Haiphong, Vietnam.

A Bright Future for Nanning-Asean Relations

Nanning’s proactive approach to fostering cooperation with ASEAN cities through cultural exchanges, tourism initiatives, and strategic partnerships positions it as an essential player in regional collaboration. As it continues to grow as an international metropolis, Nanning is set to enhance its role as a key facilitator of connections between China and ASEAN nations.

PM Courts Big Business at WEF 2025

Thai Prime Minister Connects with Global Executives

During the 55th World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra engaged with high-ranking executives from some of the world’s largest companies. Notable firms like Coca-Cola, Bayer, and Nestlé expressed interest in investing in Thailand, as reported by government spokesman Jirayu Houngsub.

Strategic Discussions on Agriculture and Healthcare

In her meetings, Prime Minister Paetongtarn highlighted Thailand’s commitment to modernizing its agricultural sector and public healthcare. She discussed potential collaborations with Bayer’s pharmaceuticals division, emphasizing advancements in medical research and agricultural innovation. Stefan Oelrich, a key executive at Bayer, indicated a strong willingness to partner with Thailand to enhance healthcare services and agricultural productivity.

Enhancing Thailand’s Logistics Capabilities

Another significant dialogue occurred with Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, CEO of DP World. The Prime Minister reiterated Thailand’s strategic role as a logistics hub in the region, focusing on major infrastructure projects like the Land Bridge and high-speed rail systems. DP World showed keen interest in enhancing Thailand’s logistics capabilities through investments in these initiatives.

Commitment to Sustainable Practices

The Prime Minister also met with Remy Ejel, CEO of Nestlé Asia, Oceania, and Africa. She urged Nestlé to support Thai farmers in adopting modern and sustainable farming practices. Nestlé reaffirmed its commitment to Thailand by announcing plans for increased investments, particularly in coffee production, while ensuring fair prices for farmers.

Continued Collaboration with Coca-Cola

In her discussions with Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey, the Prime Minister emphasized ongoing collaboration aimed at improving livelihoods for farmers in Thailand. This partnership aligns with her broader vision of fostering sustainable agricultural practices in the country.

A Focus on Future Investments

The engagements at WEF 2025 reflect Thailand’s proactive approach to attracting foreign investments and fostering international partnerships. By courting major global businesses, Prime Minister Paetongtarn aims to position Thailand as a leader in sustainable development and innovation within the Southeast Asian region.

Thailand’s Landmark Same-Sex Marriage Law Takes Effect

A New Era of Equality in Southeast Asia

On January 23, 2025, Thailand made history by becoming the first country in Southeast Asia to legalize same-sex marriage. This significant milestone follows years of advocacy by LGBTQ+ groups and marks a pivotal moment for marriage equality in the region. The Marriage Equality Act, which received overwhelming support during a parliamentary vote last June and was endorsed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn in October, officially came into force today.

Gender-Neutral Language and Equal Rights

The new legislation introduces gender-neutral language, replacing traditional terms like “husbands” and “wives” with inclusive alternatives. This change not only reflects a modern understanding of relationships but also grants same-sex couples the same legal rights as heterosexual couples, including adoption, inheritance, and medical decision-making privileges.

Celebrations Across the Nation

Mass wedding events are taking place across Thailand, with significant gatherings planned in major cities. In Bangkok, approximately 200 couples are expected to participate in a large-scale wedding ceremony organized by Bangkok Pride at the Siam Paragon shopping center. Kittun Dadhaj, president of the Rainbow Sky Association of Thailand, expressed hope that this law would serve as a model for other nations seeking to embrace marriage equality.

A Day of Joy and Significance

For many couples, this day holds profound personal significance. Ariya “Jin” Milintanapa, a transgender woman who has waited two decades for this moment, shared her excitement: “This day is important not just for us, but for our kids as well. Our family will finally become one”. The atmosphere is filled with jubilation as couples celebrate their love and commitment in a society increasingly open to diversity.

Thailand Joins Global Movement for Marriage Equality

With this development, Thailand joins Taiwan and Nepal as the third nation in Asia to recognize same-sex marriage. The enactment of this law aligns Thailand with over 30 countries worldwide that have embraced marriage equality since the Netherlands first legalized same-sex unions in 2001. This momentous occasion not only reflects changing attitudes within Thailand but also positions the country as a leader in LGBTQ+ rights within Southeast Asia.

Looking Forward: A Model for Others

As celebrations continue across the nation, LGBTQ+ advocates express optimism about the future. Minister Paongt Shinaw remarked on the importance of this achievement for Thai society: “Today signifies that our nation is open and accepting”. The hope is that Thailand’s example will inspire other countries to adopt similar laws, fostering an environment where love is celebrated in all its forms.This landmark legislation is not just a legal victory; it represents a cultural shift towards greater acceptance and recognition of diverse identities within Thai society.