Fuzhou is an Important Starting Point and Origin of the Maritime Silk Road

As the capital city of Fujian province, Fuzhou is an important starting point and origin of the maritime silk road, as well as a critical channel linking both sides of Taiwan Straits and a vital place linking the southern and northern part of the western Pacific air-route. Boasting of a resplendent history, a unique geological location and striking advantages, it has played a critical role in the construction of the 21st century maritime silk road that cannot be replaced by others.

Every May, the Cross-strait Fair for Economy and Trade will be held in Fuzhou, which can be dated back to Fuzhou International Investment Promotion Month initiated in 1994, and personally advocated and promoted by the Xi Jinping – then the Secretary-general of Fuzhou Municipal Party Committee. After two decades’ development, the Cross-strait Fair for Economy and Trade has become an important platform for promoting cross-strait economy and trade as well as the reform and opening-up.

In order to further carry out the strategic decision of “One Belt and One Road” construction made by the central government, and to step up efforts in deepening the communication and cooperation with countries on the maritime silk road in basic facilities, industrial connection, ocean development, trade and transaction, mutual investment, cultural exchange and etc., “The 21st Century Maritime Silk Road Exhibition and the 17th Cross-strait Fair for Economy and Trade” will be held in Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center between May 17 and May 21, 2015. The event will be sponsored by State Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, PRC and Fujian Provincial People’s Government, with the support of Ministry of Commerce. When the occasion arrives, “Asia Cooperation Dialogue – One Belt and One Road Commerce Conference” sponsored by Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Fujian Provincial People’s Government will be also held. To tone in with the events, Fuzhou Strait International Conference and Exhibition Center will avail of its 123000-square-meter venue to make an exhibition featured by images and products of countries on the 21st century maritime silk road and products from both sides of Taiwan Straits.