Foreign merchants attending the 137th Canton Fair had the chance to enjoy beautiful orchids and experience elements of traditional Chinese culture on Thursday.
The China Import and Export Fair, also known as the Canton Fair, kicked off on Tuesday in Guangzhou City, south China's Guangdong Province with the number of export exhibitors exceeding 30,000 for the first time in the history of the world-famous event.
Aside from finding business opportunities, the event is also a good chance for foreign merchants to learn about the beauty of China.
During their visit, they toured the Canton Orchid Garden in Guangzhou, known as "the kingdom of orchid" for its collection of nearly 20,000 pots featuring more than 100 varieties.
"The Canton Fair is not only a major event for commerce, but also a grand gathering for cultural exchange. We've invited participants of Canton Fair to enjoy the oriental aesthetics at the Orchid Garden, hoping our excellent traditional Chinese culture can go global via international exchanges," said Zhang Rong, curator of Yuexiu District's Cultural Center.
Also in their tour, overseas merchants also experienced the joys of traditional Chinese musical instruments, paintings and handcrafts.
"I think Guangzhou is a really nice city. When I come to China, I want to learn more about Chinese culture and Chinese stories. I have access to those here. I really like it," said a French purchaser.
Foreign merchants attending Canton Fair enjoy Guangzhou's orchids, traditional culture
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said on Monday that Iran has obtained extensive documents and evidence linking the recent unrest across the country to the U.S. and Israel, noting that Mossad agents attempted to direct such "terrorist acts."
Araghchi said at a press conference in Tehran that since Dec 28, 2025, Iran had seen peaceful demonstrations organized by industry associations and economic professional. In the following days, more participants joined, and the situation gradually escalated from peaceful rallies into violent clashes.
Beginning on Jan 8, terrorists and armed groups carrying weapons entered protest sites and opened fire on police and civilians, with the aim of steering demonstrations toward violence, bloodshed and chaos, he said.
"Israeli media reports are rife with claims that Israel has designed and conducted operations in Iran. Mr. [Mike] Pompeo, who was Trump's CIA director, said on his X that 'Happy New Year to every Iranian in the streets. Also to every Mossad agent walking beside them.' This clearly shows that Mossad agents attempted to direct such terrorist acts," the minister said. Addressing military threats from the U.S. and Israel, Araghchi said Iran does not seek war but is fully prepared to face up to war. He added that Iran is ready for serious and pragmatic negotiations with the U.S., but the talks must be based on fairness, equality and mutual respect, rather than unilateral pressure or directives from Washington.
On the same day, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei condemned the U.S. and Israel at a regular press briefing in Tehran. He said the two countries have made "extensive interventionist remarks" regarding Iran's situation, saying such statements are intended to foment chaos, violence and instability.
The spokesman said Iran is closely monitoring the development of the situation and remains fully prepared, warning that Iran's armed forces will respond to any act of aggression by its enemies.
Mossad agents attempt to direct terrorist acts: Iranian FM
