China's Inner Mongolia, US Oregon strengthen trade, tourism ties

A trade and tourism promotion event linking China's Inner Mongolia and the U.S. state of Oregon was held Wednesday in Portland, with officials and business representatives from both regions coming to discuss new opportunities for cooperation.

The event, held at the Oregon Department of Commerce, gathered about 80 government officials and businesspeople from the two regions. During the main presentations, commerce officials from both sides introduced their respective industries, resources, and business environments. Businesses and industry associations then took the opportunity to match supply and demand and explore partnership prospects.

"I always love to hear about the agri-tourism and all the agricultural products they have in Inner Mongolia. It's beautiful out there," said Kyle McLennan, co-founder and president of 19 Acres Cider Co.

"We are a grass producing (organization). We represent grass producers and seed producers, and there's a huge opportunity for our seed products to be used in Inner Mongolia. We should have some opportunity to work in Inner Mongolia," said Dave Goracke, president of Oregon Seed Council.

The Inner Mongolia cultural delegation also staged an artistic performance.

Contestants from universities, middle schools and elementary schools staged intriguing performances during the "Chinese Bridge" Chinese proficiency competition Colombia regional finals.

At the finals held in Bogota, capital of Colombia, from Wednesday to Thursday, the contestants delivered speeches on the theme of "one world, one family," and their excellent performances won rounds of applause.

During the talent show segment, the contestants demonstrated their love and understanding of Chinese culture through a variety of performances, including shadow puppetry, folk dance, Peking Opera, traditional Chinese musical instrument, vocal music, and Chinese calligraphy.

The three winners of the championships in the university, middle school, and primary school groups will represent Colombia to participate in the global "Chinese Bridge" competition finals in China.