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.

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.

Thailand Faces Rising Demand for Elderly Care

Over 7.5 Million Elderly Affected by Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases

In Thailand, the alarming rise in chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the elderly has led to a pressing demand for additional care managers. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin announced that more than 7.5 million elderly individuals are currently suffering from various NCDs, necessitating the recruitment of 14,000 new care managers by 2030 to adequately address this growing health crisis.

The Aging Population and Its Challenges

Transitioning to a Fully Aged Society

Thailand is experiencing a demographic shift, with approximately 21% of its population—around 14 million people—classified as elderly. This transition into a fully aged society presents significant challenges, particularly as advancements in medical technology enable longer lifespans but also contribute to an increase in chronic health conditions.

The Impact of Non-Communicable Diseases

Prevalence of Major Health Issues Among the Elderly

The statistics surrounding NCDs are concerning: 4.6 million elderly individuals suffer from hypertension, 2.1 million from diabetes, and significant numbers are affected by strokes and cardiovascular diseases. These conditions not only lead to increased healthcare costs but also result in complications such as vision impairment, mobility issues, and cognitive decline.

Projected Workforce Needs

Future Demand for Care Managers

To combat these challenges, Minister Somsak has projected that Thailand will require a total of 37,000 elderly care managers by 2030. Currently, there is a shortfall of over 14,000 personnel, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced training and development within the healthcare workforce to ensure quality care for the aging population.

Innovations in Elderly Care

Forum Focuses on Strategies for Improvement

The recent 5th Thailand Elderly Health Service Forum, attended by over 1,000 participants, including health officials and academics, showcased over 100 expert speakers and 40 exhibitions aimed at discussing innovative strategies for improving elderly care across various sectors. This forum emphasized the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing the needs of Thailand’s aging population. By recognizing the critical role of care managers and investing in their training, Thailand can better support its elderly citizens facing chronic health challenges.