by Raimundo Urrechaga
HAVANA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) -- China sends a positive signal for openness and inclusive global economic development by holding the China International Import Expo (CIIE), a renowned Cuban academic said on Monday.
"I think this first import exhibition is very important because it means an opening-up to the world like never before and this is the right moment for this type of event," Eduardo Regalado, a researcher on China and Asia at Cuba's Center for International Policy, told Xinhua in an interview.
The introduction of the import expo is consistent with China's further reform and opening-up, he said.
The Cuban expert made the remarks as the first edition of the CIIE is being held on Nov. 5-10 in Shanghai. This year marks the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening-up and has seen a series of concrete measures taken by China to open its door wider, with the import expo being part of the effort.
"With this exhibition China opens its market to the world," said Regalado. "China seeks to share the benefits of its growth and development."
Noting that the CIIE is the world's first national expo on import, he said it demonstrates the intention of the Chinese government to promote inclusive development with other countries on an international scale.
"There is no other country that has joint development projects of this scope and depth with the international community such as those proposed by China," he commented.
Beijing is "consistent" with its win-win policy in international economic relations, he added.
The CIIE attracts a total of 172 countries, regions and international organizations, as well as over 3,600 enterprises to participate.
"The CIIE becomes the showcase for the entry of high quality products to the Chinese market," said the Cuban expert.
In the eyes of Regalado, China also sends a clear message to the world at the import expo of its decision to move towards a shift in its growth mode to supplying home market with quality products.
Regalado also said the time has come for "China to fully open its economy to the world, "a decision that many nations appreciate" because of a rise in protectionism and tariffs.
The Cuban expert added that the opportunities brought by an event like the CIIE for Latin America and the Caribbean are "extraordinary".
As China is the region's and Cuba's second largest trading partner, he said, "this exhibition is a gateway to their further presence in the Chinese market, helping expand Latin American and Cuban exports," and "gives a fresh air of vitality" to Latin American economies.
"It's an opportunity that at least Latin Americans should not overlook," he added.
