A signing ceremony is held during the promotional event. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

Representatives deliver speeches during the event. [Photo/CIIE Bureau]

The promotional event for the seventh China International Import Expo was held in Lisbon, Portugal on March 25.

Nearly 100 representatives from Portuguese government departments, business associations, and enterprises participated in the event.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Portugal, said Zhao Bentang, Chinese ambassador to Portugal, at the event. He added that the continuous expansion of bilateral economic and trade cooperation and joint efforts in carrying out the Belt and Road Initiative have set an example for cooperation between China and Europe.

Noting that the CIIE allows quality goods from around the world to enter the vast Chinese market, offering unlimited business opportunities, Zhao expressed hope that more Portuguese companies would take full advantage of the CIIE to expand exports to China and share in the opportunities brought about by China's development.

Wu Zhengping, deputy director-general of the CIIE Bureau, said that Portugal has participated in the CIIE country exhibition for the past six years and showcased Portugal's favorable trade and investment environment, while Portuguese companies have actively participated in the expo's business exhibition and displayed high-quality products and unique brands.

Several attendees, including AICEP Portugal Global - Trade & Investment Agency, confirmed their commitment to actively mobilizing and supporting Portuguese companies to participate in this year's expo.

The CIIE is a part of China's efforts to open up to the outside world, said Manuel Gaeiras, director of External and Institutional Relations of the AICEP.

During the event, the CIIE Bureau signed memoranda of cooperation or agreements for participating in the expo with several organizations including the Portugal-China Chamber of Commerce and Industry and PortugalFoods.

By Zhao Guangmei