The launching ceremony of the ASEAN Cultural Business Travel Expo Center. [Photo/chinadaily.com.cn]

The China – ASEAN Cultural Business Tourism Development Seminar kicked off in Shilin county of Yunnan province on Dec 18. Ambassadors and consular officials from countries such as Brunei, Vietnam, Myanmar, Mongolia and Korea spoke at the seminar.

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The seminar explored the development of culture, business and tourism industries between China and ASEAN countries. A manifesto was agreed on among participating countries, which will facilitate further cooperation.

As part of efforts to promote cooperation between China and ASEAN countries, an expo center will be built in the Stone Forest scenic area in Shilin county.

The center will be equipped with a theater, convention center, luxury hotel, among other things, providing a platform to showcase the unique cultures of ASEAN countries.

Brunei's ambassador to China Magdalene Teo said, "We fully support the project of a permanent site of ASEAN center in business and travel in Shilin county."

Wang Bing, Party chief of Shilin county, introduced the great natural and geographical conditions of Shilin, and said, "Give Shilin an opportunity, Shilin will give back a miracle."

The seminar was hosted by the Organizing Committee of China International Friendship and Culture Festival, and supported by local government and enterprises.

The Stone Forest scenic area, located in Shilin county, is about 78 kilometers from the capital Kunming of Yunnan province. Yunnan shares a border with Myanmar, Laos and Vietnam.