On the afternoon of April 17th, the Trade Facilitation Training Program for Developing Countries opened at Sunshine Campus of WTU. This Seminar was hosted by China's Ministry of Commerce and organized by WTU. Eighteen senior officials from Nigeria, Uganda, South Africa, Gambia, and Liberia came together in Wuhan to start their learning journey. Chen Guizhi, Dean of International Education College attended to the opening ceremony along with key staff members.
Ms. Chen Guizhi extended a heartfelt welcome to all participants who had traveled from afar. She noted that we are currently living in an era characterized by rapid and profound global transformations. The restructuring of global industrial and supply chains presents both significant opportunities—such as the transition towards digitalization and sustainability—as well as notable challenges, including trade barriers and technological disparities. She emphasized that China has consistently advocated for the construction of a "community with a shared future for mankind," which entails leveraging openness to address developmental challenges and fostering collaboration to drive innovation. Subsequently, she introduced the WTU's achievements in key areas such as discipline development, scientific research, and international cooperation. Furthermore, she underscored the pivotal role of the textile industry as a starting point for industrialization in many developing countries and its critical importance in facilitating trade. During this training program, Ms. Chen reaffirmed the commitment of WTU to sharing its extensive knowledge and expertise, thereby contributing to global peace and development.
Representatives of the trainees, including Vivienne Aniagoh from Nigeria, Alieu K Kromah from Liberia, and Fatim Choi from Gambia, delivered remarks expressing their enthusiasm for learning from China's modernization experiences, particularly in the realm of trade facilitation. They also expressed their eagerness to engage in meaningful exchanges with Chinese experts and fellow trainees from various countries, aiming to identify effective strategies for enhancing and streamlining foreign trade in their respective nations.
On a side note, the first day of the program coincided with the birthday of Crasiah Marobela from South Africa, marking her first birthday in China. Center staff organized a surprise celebration in her honor, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere that exemplified the deep mutual respect and sincere friendship between the two countries.
