The 9th China-South Asia Expo kicked off on Thursday in Kunming, the capital of southwest China's Yunnan Province, with a focus on strengthening trade ties, fostering innovation, and deepening regional cooperation.

Under the theme "Solidarity and Coordination for Common Development," the five-day event has attracted participants from more than 70 countries and international organisations, including Bangladesh.

All South and Southeast Asian nations participated in the event, reports CGTN.

Across the expansive expo pavilions, exhibitors from the region are engaging in business matchmaking, showcasing their products, and exploring new partnerships.

"China is a close friend of Bangladesh. For a very long time, China has had a lot of investments in our country. And the new interim government has also provided many opportunities for foreign investors," said Mohammad Foyshol Azad, Chairman of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB).

He said investors have the opportunity to invest in the agriculture and other industrial sectors, such as the ready-made garment (RMG) sector.

"We hope that in the future, the collaboration between China and Bangladesh will be even stronger and more friendly," said Azad.

Alimuzzaman, an exhibitor from Bangladesh, attending the event for the first time.

"We are selling high-quality yarns and twines. My expectations are high. I think we'll get a lot of buyers from people who understand our quality and the size of our company," Alimuzzaman said.

This year, Sri Lanka is featured as the guest of honour.

"China is a great market for us. We've brought products ranging from wood carvings and tea to various ornaments," said Arun Hemachandra, Sri Lanka's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Employment.

"There's a new government in Sri Lanka now, and we are supporting small startups to enter the international arena. Many of the exhibitors here are attending for the first time. It's a great opportunity for us," added the Deputy Minister.

As the host province, Yunnan plays a strategic role in linking China with its southern neighbours. Local officials hope the expo will further cement its position as a gateway to South and Southeast Asia, driving greater connectivity, cooperation, and shared prosperity.