Chongqing - When the bold, spicy flavors of Chongqing hotpot meet the vibrant warmth of Cambodia, a cross-border cultural extravaganza is set to unfold! 

From March 14 to 16th, the "Let's Meet! Cambodia · Shapingba Hotpot Carnival" will occur at the Morgan Sky Plaza in Phnom Penh. This event, exploiting the potential of Chongqing's cuisine culture IP, "360 Bowls of Chongqing Flavors," is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a bridge for cultural exchange between China and Cambodia, using cuisine as a medium to deepen cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative.

Chongqing hotpot. (Photo/iChongqing)

As the "Hotpot Capital of China," Chongqing showcases its most iconic hotpot brands and intangible cultural heritage skills in both Shapingba District and Cambodia's capital. The event aims to offer people on both sides an authentic taste of Chongqing's culinary culture, releasing the charm of "a pot that cooks the world." Additionally, 27 cultural heritage crafts and time-honored Chinese brands will be featured, such as Chen Changyin Mahua (twisted dough sticks), Shaci Random Stitch Embroidery, and lacquerware. 

The opening ceremony will officially commence in Shapingba District on March 14. The ceremony features a welcome address from H.E. Ly Thuch, Cambodia's Senior Minister of the Ministry of Interior, as well as promotional speeches and videos concerning the investment opportunities and cultural specialties in Shapingba. Some Cambodian students are also invited to attend the ceremony during which they will call their parents and H.E. Nos Sles, Secretary of State for the Ministry of Education, in Cambodia, a chance for them to share their delight in studying in Chongqing.

Shapingba's Ciqikou ancient town is home to many local food (Photo/Feng Xiaolou)

This carnival serves not only as a cultural showcase but also as a vital platform for Chongqing enterprises to expand globally. Brands like Captain Hotpot and Huangjia Wharf Hotpot will introduce their signature soup bases and promote their brands, infusing the Cambodian market with the essence of Chongqing flavors. Organizers hope to use Chongqing's culinary culture as a bond to strengthen economic and trade cooperation between the two regions, injecting new momentum into constructing an international consumption hub and regional economic growth.

Chongqing is keen to host cultural exchanges between Chinese and Cambodian Youth (Photo/Chongqing Luhai International Communication Foundation)

The "Let's Meet! Cambodia · Shapingba Hotpot Carnival" is more than a display of food and culture; it is a bridge of friendship between China and Cambodia. The event will deepen cooperation in trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges, bringing new vitality to the Belt and Road Initiative. Let the world savor Chongqing, and let Chongqing embrace the world!