7th CIIE to focus on innovation, global support

As the countdown begins for the 7th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, organizers are implementing extensive preparations to ensure the event promotes innovation and offers sufficient support to developing countries.

The State Council Information Office has shared details at a press conference about the busy preparations underway to create a successful platform for international trade and cooperation.

According to the Ministry of Commerce, this year's expo will come up with measures to boost development of new quality productive forces.

"The expo has established a dedicated area for new materials for the first time, upgraded the innovation incubation zone, and hosted sub-forums related to the launch economy and consumption promotion. These efforts aim to facilitate industrial upgrading, enrich domestic supply, and support high-quality development and a high-quality lifestyle," said Tang Wenhong, assistant minister of commerce.

Logistics and event services are being prioritized to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.

"The Shanghai Municipal Party Committee and Government will successfully host the China International Import Expo (CIIE) as a concrete action to implement the spirit of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China," emphasized Hua Yuan, vice mayor of Shanghai.

A key aspect of this year's expo is its focus on supporting developing countries, particularly those in Africa. Organizers have announced plans to assist 37 least developed countries by creating a specialized product area that will help them explore opportunities in the Chinese market.

In addition to the main event, a series of forums and sub-forums will be held to encourage consumer spending and drive industrial upgrades, providing a platform for collaboration and innovation among attendees.

As the event opening date draws closer, anticipation builds up around its potential to foster economic growth and international partnerships.

7th CIIE to focus on innovation, global support

All the 27 individuals who arrived in Rotterdam aboard the hantavirus-hit cruise ship MV Hondius have tested negative for the Andes virus, the Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport said on Thursday.

The cruise ship arrived at the Dutch port city on Monday for disinfection, ending a voyage that had drawn the attention of international health authorities over hantavirus infections on board.

In a letter to the parliament, Dutch Minister of Health, Welfare and Sport Sophie Hermans said none of the 27 individuals were currently showing symptoms of infection.

"Upon arrival at the port, the individuals underwent comprehensive medical examinations and laboratory testing," Hermans said. "All test results for them are negative. This means that no Andes virus infection has been detected in them." Health and epidemic prevention authorities are also conducting virus tests on samples taken from multiple points aboard the ship.

She also said that a hantavirus-infected patient who was admitted to the Radboud University Medical Center in Nijmegen on May 7 has since been discharged and is currently in quarantine at home.

The Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment said earlier this week that the risk of hantavirus spreading in the Netherlands remains very low.

According to Oceanwide Expeditions, the Dutch vessel’s operator, after comprehensive cleaning, inspections and routine reviews, the Hondius is scheduled to resume operation on June 13.

The vessel set sail from Ushuaia, Argentina, on April 1, heading for the Atlantic island nation of Cape Verde. The hantavirus-infection occurred mid-journey, turning the ship into a focal point of international health monitoring. The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed the risk posed by the infection to the global public as low.

No Andes virus infections detected among cruise ship arrivals in Netherlands