ARTS / MUSIC
National pavilion displays warmth, creativity, diversity: consul general
Colombia appears as guest of honor at CIIE for first time
Editor's Note:
When the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) adjourned on November 10, diplomats who are based in Shanghai told the Global Times that the expo has served as a platform for promoting exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations, and the inclusiveness and openness of the expo has extended far beyond business. The expo has been building a bridge to let visitors understand the diversity, creativity and passion in China.
In an exclusive interview with the Global Times, Miguel Alberto Gómez Vélez, consul general of Colombia in Shanghai, shared what it is like to host a national pavilion as a guest of honor at the CIIE for the first time.
Talking about the cultural performances featured at the national pavilion, Gómez Vélez said that the key cultural values and national spirit he hoped to convey to the Chinese public are friendship, respect for diversity, defense of the environment, protection of cultural traditions, and hard work to promote equity at home and fair trade abroad.
He said being a guest of honor at the CIIE could be a big step forward for Colombia. "This milestone represents an unprecedented diplomatic and economic advancement in the bilateral relations between both countries, positioning Colombia as a strategic partner for the Asian market," he said.
With a theme of "Colombia, the Country of Beauty," the national pavilion showcased business areas, tasting of local delicacies, cultural performances, and immersive experiences to promote key sectors such as agro-industry, processed foods, fashion, design, chemicals, and tourism.
This has helped build a special bridge to deepen mutual understanding and trust between Colombia and China, he said.
"As we know, in China, business relationships are built on connections based on respect, reciprocity, and trust. Before any commercial exchange takes place, it is essential to establish emotional and cultural closeness. Through music, dance, and artistic expression, Colombia's cultural performances allow Chinese audiences to experience the warmth, creativity, and diversity of our country in a more personal and authentic way," Gómez Vélez noted.
He also pointed out that in 2024, the relationship between China and Colombia made significant progress in the areas of trade, tourism, and investment.
Tourism from China to Colombia recorded an increase of more than 30 percent in 2024 compared to 2023. The preferred destinations among Chinese tourists were those that emphasize activities allowing them to interact with local culture and connect with nature.
The consul general mentioned the importance of enhancing the appeal and recognition of Colombian brands. "Colombia is working hard to support entrepreneurs who want to export high-quality products. Also, the country has invested through diverse international campaigns to promote sectors that have natural advantages including tourism and handicrafts, and to maintain and increase the recognition of strategic products such as coffee, which is known worldwide for its extraordinary quality," he said.
Following the CIIE, Colombia expects to sustain this special moment in the bilateral relationship with China. "Colombia is increasingly supporting initiatives that look forward to opening new areas of business with China, without forgetting our strength in the traditional exports," he added.
When the eighth China International Import Expo (CIIE) adjourned on November 10, diplomats who are based in Shanghai told the Global Times that the expo has served as a platform for promoting exchanges and mutual learning between civilizations, and the inclusiveness and openness of the expo has extended far beyond business. The expo has been building a bridge to let visitors understand the diversity, creativity and passion in China.
Sergio Fausto Cabrera Cárdenas, ambassador of Colombia to China (right) and Miguel Alberto Gómez Vélez, consul general of Colombia in Shanghai (2nd from left) at the National Pavilion opening ceremony at the CIIE in Shanghai on November 5, 2025. Photo: Courtesy of the Consulate General of the Republic of Colombia in Shanghai
As one of the six countries selected as guests of honor at the China International Import Expo (CIIE), Colombia has offered visitors a taste of the mystery of the Andes and the exuberance of the Caribbean Sea at its national pavilion, displaying the country's warmth, creativity, and diversity.In an exclusive interview with the Global Times, Miguel Alberto Gómez Vélez, consul general of Colombia in Shanghai, shared what it is like to host a national pavilion as a guest of honor at the CIIE for the first time.
Talking about the cultural performances featured at the national pavilion, Gómez Vélez said that the key cultural values and national spirit he hoped to convey to the Chinese public are friendship, respect for diversity, defense of the environment, protection of cultural traditions, and hard work to promote equity at home and fair trade abroad.
He said being a guest of honor at the CIIE could be a big step forward for Colombia. "This milestone represents an unprecedented diplomatic and economic advancement in the bilateral relations between both countries, positioning Colombia as a strategic partner for the Asian market," he said.
With a theme of "Colombia, the Country of Beauty," the national pavilion showcased business areas, tasting of local delicacies, cultural performances, and immersive experiences to promote key sectors such as agro-industry, processed foods, fashion, design, chemicals, and tourism.
This has helped build a special bridge to deepen mutual understanding and trust between Colombia and China, he said.
"As we know, in China, business relationships are built on connections based on respect, reciprocity, and trust. Before any commercial exchange takes place, it is essential to establish emotional and cultural closeness. Through music, dance, and artistic expression, Colombia's cultural performances allow Chinese audiences to experience the warmth, creativity, and diversity of our country in a more personal and authentic way," Gómez Vélez noted.
He also pointed out that in 2024, the relationship between China and Colombia made significant progress in the areas of trade, tourism, and investment.
Tourism from China to Colombia recorded an increase of more than 30 percent in 2024 compared to 2023. The preferred destinations among Chinese tourists were those that emphasize activities allowing them to interact with local culture and connect with nature.
The consul general mentioned the importance of enhancing the appeal and recognition of Colombian brands. "Colombia is working hard to support entrepreneurs who want to export high-quality products. Also, the country has invested through diverse international campaigns to promote sectors that have natural advantages including tourism and handicrafts, and to maintain and increase the recognition of strategic products such as coffee, which is known worldwide for its extraordinary quality," he said.
Following the CIIE, Colombia expects to sustain this special moment in the bilateral relationship with China. "Colombia is increasingly supporting initiatives that look forward to opening new areas of business with China, without forgetting our strength in the traditional exports," he added.
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