Yunnan Province, China, December 6, 2024 – Mekong Institute (MI) Executive Director Mr. Suriyan Vichitlekarn has emphasized the significance of Dali as a burgeoning connectivity hub in Asia during the recent Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) Dali Forum, held from December 4 to 6, 2024, in Dali, Yunnan Province, China. This forum was organized by Dali University and Fudan University, with support from the Interdisciplinary Research Center of Dali University and the Fudan Institute of Belt and Road & Global Governance, under the auspices of the China Technical and Economic Association. The conference theme, “Facing South and Southeast Asia, Heading Towards the Indian Ocean,” reflects the new opportunities for development presented by Dali on an international stage.
In his keynote address, Mr. Suriyan outlined a variety of prospects that Dali and Yunnan province can leverage. He identified Dali as a gateway to Southeast Asia and South Asia, highlighting its rich cultural heritage and tourism potential. Furthermore, he pointed to opportunities in health and wellness industries, health tourism, herbal medicine, creative economies, value-added products, infrastructure connectivity, and clean energy initiatives.
Dali’s geographical advantages are also noteworthy; it is strategically located along several key regional economic corridors including the China-Myanmar corridor, the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor, and the Greater Mekong Subregion (GMS) North-South Economic Corridor. These corridors facilitate high-quality agrifood products, digital economy growth, e-commerce expansion, foreign direct investment (FDI) in tourism, technology transfer in agribusiness, and environmental conservation efforts.
To fully harness these opportunities, Mr. Suriyan urged for enhanced collaboration through various frameworks including the Lancang-Mekong Cooperation (LMC) and the GMS Economic Cooperation Program. He proposed a comprehensive Investment Promotion Strategy aimed at realizing Dali’s potential. Specific actions he recommended include:
- Strengthening Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: Establishing clear guidelines to foster investment.
- Boosting Infrastructure Development and Financing: Ensuring adequate funding for essential infrastructure projects.
- Capacity-Building and Knowledge Sharing: Enhancing skills and knowledge among local stakeholders.
- Promoting Sustainable Development Initiatives: Focusing on environmentally friendly practices.
- Strengthening Regional and Global Partnerships: Building alliances with international organizations.
- Marketing and Branding Dali as a Hub: Elevating Dali’s profile as a key destination for investment.
- Showcasing Demonstrative Benefits of BRI and DGI: Highlighting successful projects that illustrate the advantages of these initiatives.
During this event, MI also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Economic and Management Schools Alliance of Lancang-Mekong Countries (EMSAL). This agreement aims to foster cooperation among educational institutions to promote high-quality development in education, research, and training within the Lancang-Mekong region. Key areas of collaboration include:
- Collaborative Research
- Capacity Building and Talent Development
- Institutional Strengthening
- Joint Events and Forums
- Personnel and Knowledge Exchange
- Resource Sharing among alliance members
The forum attracted approximately 150 participants from both international and Chinese backgrounds, underscoring its significance as a platform for dialogue on regional development.
About EMSAL
The Economic and Management Schools Alliance of Lancang-Mekong Countries (EMSAL) comprises leading universities and institutions dedicated to innovation in research and education within service industries. The secretariat is hosted at Dali University in China, which plays a pivotal role in coordinating activities aimed at enhancing educational standards across the region. Through collaborative efforts like those discussed at this forum, stakeholders are optimistic about unlocking Dali’s full potential as a vital hub for connectivity and economic development in Asia.
