ACC Supported the ASEAN Food and Handicrafts Bazaar,Contributing to the Flood Victims in Myanmar

On 11 November 2015, ASEAN-China Centre (ACC) supported the ASEAN Food and Handicrafts Bazaar organized by the ASEAN Ladies Circle (ALC) at the compound of the Indonesian Embassy. Secretary-General of ACC H.E. Mme. Yang Xiuping, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam H.E. Mme. Magdalene Teo, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia H.E. Mme. Khek M. Caimealy, Ambassador of the Republic of the Philippines H.E. Mme. Erlinda F. Basilio, Ambassador of Lao PDR H.E. Mr. Somdy Bounkhoum and representatives from All China Women’s Federation, members of the diplomatic circles, various associations and the local Chinese communities were among the crowds attending the event.

Mme. Aslida N. Rahardjo, wife of the Indonesian Ambassador to China and Chair of ALC in Beijing, extended her very warm welcome to ASEAN Ambassadors, ACC Secretary-General, diplomats from ASEAN Embassies and members of ALC and expressed her deepest gratitude to ACC for the sponsorship and support at the Bazaar. She said that the purpose of this Bazaar was not only to introduce the colorful cultures of ASEAN countries, but more importantly to strengthen the bonds of friendship and solidarity among all ASEAN Member States, by supporting and helping each other. With this aim, all proceeds from the food and handicraft sales at the Bazaar would be donated to the flood victims in Myanmar via its Embassy in Beijing.

Secretary-General Yang praised the significance of this event and ALC’s efforts in organizing a charity event. She said both China and ASEAN countries were very resourceful with rich and colorful cultures and traditions, having so much to share and explore together the enormous potentials. Next year would mark the 25th Anniversary of ASEAN-China dialogue relations. Against this backdrop, ASEAN and China were planning to organize a series of celebrations. She hoped ALC members could participate and further enhance ASEAN-China cultural exchanges and cooperation.

Secretary-General Yang and other honorable guests visited the Bazaar booths and tasted traditional cuisine of ASEAN countries. The collection of ACC publications, brochures and souvenirs attracted many visitors to ACC booth. The proceeds of the Bazaar with a total amount of 32,500 RMB was handed over to the Myanmar Embassy for donation to the flood victims.