One of the world's largest academic conference on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) was held in Hong Kong for the first time.
The 18th World Congress of Chinese Medicine took place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on December 4, 2021.
It was held in hybrid format and attracted more than 2,000 delegates from 60 countries.
The Chinese Medicine Practitioners Association, a member of the Hong Kong Convention Ambassador (HKCA) programme, led the bid for the event, which was initiated by the Hong Kong Tourism Board, in collaboration with the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS).
As physical gatherings resumed for the first time since the pandemic started, WCCM provided a platform for participants to engage in meaningful dialogue, covering TCM practices, benefits, opportunities and challenges, and the development potential of TCM.
Ma Jianzhong, president of WFCMS, said: “We are pleased to host this edition of WCCM in Hong Kong for the first time. Embracing Chinese philosophy and culture, Hong Kong is the ideal place for academic and cultural exchanges to explore the way forward for furthering the development of TCM, and its role in combating the pandemic through collaboration between practitioners and public sectors.”
Sang Binsheng, VP and secretary general of WFCMS, added: “Hong Kong is renowned for being the 'World's Meeting Place' thanks to its globally accessible and convenient transport network, large-scale world-class venues, facilities and professional services. We look forward to gathering again in Hong Kong and navigating the future of TCM development together.”
HKTB executive director Dane Cheng said: “Hong Kong enjoys unique geographical and cultural advantages, and is the ideal destination for international conventions. Many such events have taken place recently, demonstrating Hong Kong’s ability to host large-scale global events safely and efficiently. Apart from TCM, Hong Kong will continue to leverage the city’s advantages as an East-meets-West showcase to promote the very best of Chinese heritage.”
This winter, the city will also play host to key medical conventions, including the International Annual Congress of the Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgeons of Asia (ELSA) 2021, and the Hong Kong International Dental Expo and Symposium (HKIDEAS) 2021, both of which are led by Convention Ambassadors of the two organisations under the HKCA programme.
Written By
James Lancaster
AMI editor James
Lancaster is a familiar face in the meetings industry and international
association community. Since joining AMI in 2010, he has gained a reputation
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