Government officials from Yunnan province and Rugao, a county-level city in Nantong, attend the signing ceremony for the partnership between Rugao Economic and Technological Development Zone and China-Laos Mohan-Boten Economic Cooperation Zone on April 17. [Photo/WeChat account: RGETDZ]

Rugao Economic and Technological Development Zone signed a cooperation agreement with China-Laos Mohan-Boten Economic Cooperation Zone in Kunming, capital of Southwest China's Yunnan province, on April 17.

Zhang Jianhua, secretary of the Rugao Party committee, introduced Rugao's economic and social development, advanced transportation network and business environment at the signing ceremony. He said the city will take full advantage of the new partnership to benefit companies in both regions.

Zhang Guohua, vice-governor of Yunnan, echoed Zhang, stating that the two sides will complement each other – Rugao's industries are growing rapidly, especially new energy vehicles, while Yunnan enjoys geological advantages and has been working to facilitate cooperation with South Asia and Southeast Asia.

Mohan, located on the China-Laos border, has been playing a significant role in promoting the implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative in Southeast Asia, according to Zhao Gang, director of the administrative commission of China-Laos Mohan-Boten Economic Cooperation Zone.

"It is a key part of the China-Laos Economic Corridor and the most convenient land passage connecting China and countries in Southeast Asia," Zhao explained. He said the zone will soon send a delegation to Rugao to seek more cooperation opportunities.