On 8 September 2025, H.E. Ambassador Shi Zhongjun, Secretary General of the ASEAN-China Centre (ACC) attended the 2025 Global Ocean Development Forum opened in Qingdao. The Forum themed “Let’s Sea Our Futures: Developing a Sustainable Marine Economy for a Thriving Ocean” aimed to address the challenges of global ocean cooperation. To build the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road and a maritime community with a shared future, the Forum explored ways to deepen practical cooperation, promote innovation, strengthen global governance, and enhance people-to-people exchange. As one of the most influential ocean cooperation events in China, the Forum brought together leading voices from China’s Ministry of Natural Resources, Shandong province and Qingdao municipality, China’s marine agencies, foreign dignitaries, United Nations and international marine organizations, and academic and business communities.

At the Mayors Dialogue of Coastal Cities, Secretary General Shi emphasized that ASEAN and China are active players in maritime cooperation and blue economy. Both sides have been jointly strengthening regional blue economy networks to advance the sustainable ocean economy. The ASEAN-China cooperation in sustainable ocean economy is not only a common strategic choice for long-term development, but also a necessary response to regional opportunities and challenges. To further promote blue economy cooperation, Secretary General Shi suggested that both public and private sectors should uphold the philosophy of sustainable development, foster a comprehensive governance framework for blue partnership, and establish international standards for blue economy. The closer collaboration would drive the ASEAN-China blue economy partnership and the shared benefit of ocean resources.

At the Dialogue, Secretary General Shi also witnessed the launching ceremony of the Blue Economy Development Alliance of the East Asia Marine Cooperation Platform initiated by the Ocean Decade International Cooperation Center. The Alliance aims to integrate resources and strengths in blue economy among public and private sectors in East Asia including ASEAN, enhance communication and collaboration in information, technology, and investment, and build a regional cooperation platform for sustainable development.

On the sidelines of the forum, SG Shi gave interview to Jinan Times, Qinghai News, and Qingdao West Coast Media at the Press Conference, exchanging views on topics including the potential of ASEAN-China cooperation in ocean economy and the role of Shandong province and Qingdao municipality in support of regional maritime cooperation.