The Consulate-General of China in Osaka, Japan, held a seminar to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the friendship-city relationship between Shanghai and Osaka on Feb 6, with more than 500 guests from China and Japan in attendance.

"The foundation of Sino-Japanese relations lies in civil communication, while the vitality lies among the locals," said Consul-general Xue Jian.

He added that in the past 50 years, Shanghai and Osaka have achieved cooperation in various fields such as investment, medical care, and port transportation. He is looking forward to upgrading the cooperation between the two cities, which will play a positive role in promoting Sino-Japanese relations.

Vice-mayor of Shanghai Hua Yuan addressed through a video that Shanghai and Osaka share similar experiences in economic development as being economic centers and important port cities for the two countries.

He said that both sides should enhance cooperation in economy, trade, industry, technology, and culture and focus on urban governance, public services, and smart cities.

Guests from both cities also discussed topics such as friendly exchanges, culture, tourism, and the Osaka World Expo, which is seen as an opportunity to strengthen the friendship and further expand cooperation between the two cities.

A Spring Festival reception was also held to celebrate the upcoming Year of the Dragon.