The Hub with Wang Guan

Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Hungary is not just about enhancing bilateral relations but also promoting trade cooperation between the two sides. Our guests today are three entrepreneurs from Hungary. They may come from different sectors and industries, but they share one thing in common: they all benefit from their strong bonds with China.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to Hungary from May 8th through May 10th represents a significant milestone in the bilateral relations. With some 16 agreements slated for signing and two more under discussion, the visit is of paramount importance for both countries. As Hungary embraces the Belt and Road Initiative, the potential for expanded trade connectivity with China and other European countries looks strong. To delve deeper into President Xi Jinping's visit to Hungary and its impact on bilateral economic and trade relations, Wang Guan talks with Tibor Navracsics, Hungary's Minister for Public Administration and Regional Development.

China-France interactions are considered by many scholars as a prototype, a model relation among China's interactions with the West. As early as in 1964, France became one of the very few Western countries to recognize the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate representative of all of China. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. What is the overall importance of the summit between President Xi and President Macron? What can we expect in terms of further improvements in bilateral relations?

This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. It also marks the 20th anniversary of a sister-city program between the Chinese city of Huzhou and the French city of Montargis. How do these two cities plan to further their relations? And how will that make a difference for China-France ties? Our guests today are Mr. Hong Hupeng, the Mayor of Huzhou and Mr. Benoit Digeon, Mayor of Montargis.

China and Venezuela have elevated their relations to an all-weather strategic partnership. What does that mean for bilateral ties? Venezuela has come under intensifying U.S. sanctions in recent years. How has that impacted lives and businesses in the country? Our guest today is Nicolas Maduro Guerra, Chairman of China-Venezuela Parliamentary Friendship Group.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz was in China from April 14 to 16 for his second visit since assuming office. As we commemorate the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Germany, how significant is this visit in shaping the future trajectory of China-Germany relations? And with German direct investment in China reaching a record high last year, how can German businesses further tap into China's vast growth potential in the coming years?

Yunnan, a province that stands proudly at China's southwestern border, is renowned for its awe-inspiring sceneries and a kaleidoscope of ethnicities. Yet, behind its picturesque façade, Yunnan confronts the harsh realities of rugged terrain and its landlocked status. The province is now redefining its strategic significance, transforming into a key hub of the dynamic markets of South and Southeast Asia. How has Yunnan overcome its socioeconomic challenges while shifting focus onto sustainable growth? In this episode of the Forefront, we talk to Wang Ning, secretary of the CPC Yunnan Provincial Committee.

The journey of President of the General Assembly of Pest County of Hungary Szabó István's recent delegation to various places across China underscores the growing importance of provincial exchanges in strengthening bilateral relations. What's the outcome of this visit? How will provincial-level cooperation enhance the overall bilateral relationship?

This year's China Development Forum saw Chinese Premier Li Qiang addressing the opening ceremony and has participants from around the world, including policymakers and CEOs from multinational companies. Once again, the Chinese economy is in focus. Is China's economy losing momentum? Is China still a top choice for investors from around the world? On the sidelines of the meetings, we caught up with some participants from the forum.

On March 24, 1999, without the authorization of the United Nations Security Council, the U.S.-led NATO initiated a bombing campaign against the former Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. The bombing campaign lasted for 78 days, resulting in significant casualties among innocent lives and causing extensive property and other damages. Now, 25 years on, what do people still remember about those days? What are the views of the ordinary people in that region on NATO?