(Photo: The Administrative Affairs Bureau of Hengqin)

A delegation of senior European diplomats visited the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin on May 22, signaling renewed interest in closer China-EU economic collaboration.

Led by Harvey Rouse, Head of the European Union Office to Hong Kong and Macao, the group included consuls general and deputy consuls from eight EU member states: Poland, Ireland, Italy, Spain, the Czech Republic, Austria, Finland, and Germany. The visit focused on understanding Hengqin's latest developments and exploring avenues for cross-border cooperation, particularly in trade, green industries, and digital commerce.

The diplomats toured the Hengqin Cross-Border E-Commerce (Huafa) Innovation Park, where they were introduced to the region's growing e-commerce ecosystem. Smart retail platforms, international supply chains, and a highly digitized product selection center impressed many in the delegation. Officials highlighted the island's ambition to become a key hub for high-quality international trade services.

During talks with the Executive Committee of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, both sides shared views on leveraging Hengqin's unique integration with Macao. Discussions touched on upcoming joint initiatives, including the creation of a China-Portuguese-speaking Countries Economic and Trade Service Centre, designed to support trade between Chinese and Portuguese-speaking markets.

The visit comes as Hengqin seeks to expand its international profile. Backed by preferential policies and deepening ties with Macao, the island aims to attract more global partners in sectors ranging from technology to culture.