The 11th China International Senior Services Expo wrapped up Friday in Beijing, highlighting the latest innovations in elder care technology and products, especially more smart devices and eldercare robots.
The four-day expo attracted over 220 government departments, social organizations, and brand agencies from over ten countries and regions. Both traditional and cutting-edge products for elderly care were on display at the expo. Apart from wheelchairs and nursing beds, there was a wide array of specialized items, including senior-friendly tableware, food, and clothing.
One exhibitor introduced a kind of fabric specially developed for older adults with antibacterial and deodorizing properties.
"We hope to address specific needs of seniors through textile innovation and see this as a breakthrough point for our industry," said the exhibitor.
The expo demonstrated that the booming "silver economy" is giving traditional industries a fresh boost. Another exhibitor introduced over 200 senior products, including voice-enabled appliances designed to be more accessible for elderly users. These products also qualify for a 30 percent government subsidy under the aging-friendly home renovation policy.
"Our microwave uses high-contrast, large red, yellow, and green characters. When pressed, each button gives voice feedback," another exhibitor said.
Various eldercare robots were among the most popular attractions on the show floor. These included nursing robots and companion robots like "Xiao Li," which can play chess with seniors and provide emotional support.
"When the elderly person leaves the house, Xiao Li follows them to the door and reminds them not to forget essentials like their phone or keys. When they return, the robot greets them, allowing them to place any purchased items into its storage compartment conveniently. It then helps transport those items to the kitchen or other areas," explained an exhibitor.
Senior services expo in Beijing showcases more smart care solutions
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
