Amid the economic malaise that is still stalking the world's financial markets, one southern region of China is pinning its immediate hopes for recovery on the success of a high-level development forum and trade fair. The event, the 5th Pan-Pearl River Delta Regional Cooperation and Development Forum and Trade Fair (5th PPRD Forum and Fair) opened in Nanning, the capital of the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, yesterday and will run until June 13.

Speaking prior to the official opening, Ma Biao, chairman of the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, said: "With the support from both central and local governments, and coordinated efforts by PPRD members, together with broad support from all members of the community, the PPRD forum and fair, as well as Guangxi itself, have all enjoyed rapid growth.

"During the economic slowdown, only enhanced cooperation, mutual support and closer communication between all the PPRD members will ensure continued growth."