On October 17, a forum titled “China-Europe-Africa Bamboo Technology Innovation and Green Industry Cooperation” was held in Brussels, jointly organized by the Chinese Mission to the European Union and the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization. The event featured remarks from China’s newly appointed ambassador to the EU, Cai Run, and a video address from Jiang Zehui, co-chair of the International Bamboo and Rattan Organization. Distinguished guests included former United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Erik Solheim and the head of the Kenyan Mission to the EU, Martin Ndebia.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Cai emphasized the significant strides made by the Chinese Communist Party’s recent plenum towards deepening ecological civilization reforms. He highlighted China’s commitment as a responsible major power to integrate ecological development into national policy while actively participating in global environmental and climate governance through the concept of a shared future for humanity. He noted the solid foundation and immense potential for cooperation among China, Europe, and Africa in promoting bamboo technology innovation as a sustainable alternative to plastic. Cai expressed China’s enthusiasm for collaborating with the international community to advance green development and forge a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature, ultimately aiming to build a clean and beautiful world.

The event also facilitated discussions among attendees like Solheim and Ndebia, focusing on bamboo technology innovation and green industry collaboration. They praised the “bamboo instead of plastic” initiative and acknowledged the critical contributions made by China in fostering green development and addressing global challenges, expressing a desire to enhance communication and cooperation with China.

During the forum, Ambassador Cai and guests visited the exhibition themed around “bamboo instead of plastic,” engaging in warm conversations as the atmosphere buzzed with excitement.