Reinforcing the growing significance of India–China dialogue through regional cooperation and cultural diplomacy, a press conference was held in Kolkata following the successful conclusion of the 7th China–South Asia Cooperation Forum 2026 in Kunming, China. The event highlighted India’s participation in one of the region’s key multilateral platforms, where noted social entrepreneur and sustainability advocate Dr. Chaitali Das represented India as a distinguished speaker at the China–South Asia Think Tank Forum.
The press conference was attended by H.E. Xu Wei, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Kolkata, along with members of the West Bengal cultural delegation that represented India’s rich cultural heritage at the international forum. Invited by the Office of Foreign Affairs of Yunnan Province, Dr. Das addressed global policymakers, academics and thought leaders on issues of well-being, sustainable development, eco-friendly products, regional healthcare cooperation, eco-tourism, rural revitalisation, rural governance, women-led development and strengthening people-to-people exchanges between South Asia and China. One of the key highlights of her address was the proposal to establish a China–South Asia Oncology Exchange Programme, aimed at fostering collaboration among hospitals, researchers and oncology specialists across the region. The initiative envisioned advancing cancer research, improving patient care, facilitating medical knowledge exchange and strengthening post-treatment psychological rehabilitation for cancer survivors. Dr. Das also underlined the shared civilisational heritage of India and China through traditional wellness systems such as Yoga and Tai Chi, while advocating greater bilateral collaboration in heritage tourism, sustainable livelihoods, rural innovation and women-led social enterprises.
Speaking at the press conference, Dr. Chaitali Das said, “The China–South Asia Cooperation Forum demonstrated that sustainable development is best achieved through dialogue, knowledge-sharing and people-centric partnerships. I believe India and China can build stronger bridges in healthcare, rural development, cultural exchange and innovation to create a healthier, more inclusive and sustainable future for the region.” The forum concluded with a renewed emphasis on multilateral cooperation, regional connectivity and cultural engagement, further strengthening opportunities for constructive India–China collaboration and long-term people-to-people relations across South Asia.
