Established in 1999, the Hainan Friendship Award honors foreign experts who have made outstanding contributions to Hainan’s economic and social development. This year, the provincial government presented the 2024 award to seven distinguished experts. Among the recipients were also David (UK), Tommy (USA), and Ruslan (Kazakhstan), who also serve as overseas communication officers for Hainan International Media Center (HIMC).

During the symposium, foreign experts representing a broad range of sectors, including education and research, international trade, cultural tourism, and healthcare, shared their insights based on their work and life in Hainan. They also offered constructive suggestions on better integrating industrial development with talent cultivation and enhancing services for international professionals. Leaders of relevant provincial departments responded to experts’ concerns on-site. 

Feng congratulated the award recipients and extended his heartfelt gratitude to all international friends who have supported and participated in Hainan’s reform, opening up, and development. He also noted the Hainan Free Trade Port (FTP) is being develped as a key gateway for China’s new phase of opening up. With island-wide special customs operations set to begin on December 18, the FTP aims to foster a stronger industrial and research ecosystem, create a more supportive environment for employment and entrepreneurship, and improve public services to attract global talent. Feng encouraged foreign experts to engage closely with the FTP’s growth—by sharing expertise, offering policy suggestions, and connecting Hainan with leading international research institutions, universities, and businesses. By introducing advanced technologies, practices, and standards, they can help strengthen Hainan’s global competitiveness.