Paolo Gentiloni, former prime minister of Italy and former European commissioner for the economy, struck an optimistic note on China-EU trade relations during a group interview on the sidelines of the Boao Forum for Asia 2026 Annual Conference on March 26, calling the two economies natural partners

For Eduardo Pedrosa, executive director of the APEC Secretariat, the timing of China's turn as APEC host could hardly be more significant.

Last week, the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) celebrated its 100th day of the island-wide special customs operations starting December 18, 2025. Over these 100 days, the world's "youngest FTP" has achieved a good start for its special customs operations, receiving positive feedback from all parties.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is well positioned to withstand external shocks and maintain steady growth, backed by the Chinese mainland as a stable anchor, Paul Chan, financial secretary of the HKSAR government noted in his Sunday blog.

Against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East regions, global markets for energy, fertilizers and other commodities are facing supply shortages, exerting pressure on many countries.

Asia's economy continues to demonstrate strong resilience and positive momentum, making an important contribution to global growth and sustainable development, according to flagship reports from the Boao Forum for Asia.