The Foreign Affairs Office of Hainan Province has been promoting the Hainan's high level of openness, strengthening ties with overseas countries and striving to contribute to the construction of a new and open economic system.
Relying on unique and advantageous projects, the tropical island has been actively engaged in close exchanges and cooperation with countries and regions along the Belt and Road.
In 2019, the provincial leaders of Hainan went on 15 overseas visits with itineraries covering more than 40 countries and regions. They signed more than 70 foreign cooperation projects and agreements that not only promoted Hainan's deep integration into the Belt and Road construction, but also opened up a broader space for international cooperation for the construction of the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP).
The Foreign Affairs Office of Hainan Province has also promoted integrative system innovation targeting common difficulties faced by residents or travelers. For example, the handling of services concerning APEC Business Travel Cards or letters of invitation and consular certifications has realized a "one-click report" channel of data from users to the foreign affairs office and then to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This ensures that services are offered in an easier way around the clock, reducing the time and energy expended by applicants.
The foreign affairs offices in Hainan have also been dedicated to the upgrading of foreign language signs in public places, which is not only an important part of Hainan's foreign exchange environment construction, but also a crucial move to optimize the business environment and boost the construction of the Hainan FTP.
In addition, the island province has also been enhancing cooperation and communication with sister regions across the world. Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hainan has received material assistance from more than 20 international friendly cities on five continents when it combated the disease. As of June, Hainan has also donated 1.33 million masks, 2,500 medical protective gowns, 1,000 medical isolation suits, and 1,000 bottles of disinfectant to 38 international sister cities in 25 countries including Hyogo, Japan, and Jeju, South Korea.
At present, the number of international sister regions of Hainan province has increased to 64. Hainan has been welcoming global market players and various talents to share the opportunities and development achievements of the Hainan FTP. The ever-expanding international circle of friends will also bring better-quality global resources to the free trade port for mutually beneficial development.