(CGTN photo)
The Boao Forum for Asia conference kicked off in Bangkok, Thailand on Tuesday morning, calling for regional economic integration under the theme of "Asian Regional Cooperation: New Challenges, New Approach".
Around 350 representatives from 13 countries and regions spoke gathered in Bangkok to discuss the challenges and opportunities Asian economies face amid the rise of protectionism and shrinking international investment as well as economic transition.
The one-day meeting includes three sessions: Asian Economic Integration: The Way Ahead, Connecting Asia: Infrastructure and Supply Chain, and ASEAN-China Free Trade Area: Trade, Investment and Financial Cooperation.
Zeng Peiyan, vice-chairman of the Boao Forum for Asia and a former Chinese vice premier, along with Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai, delivered speeches at the opening ceremony.