Are international business expos just for business? As an expo veteran, "Yes" would probably have been my answer until a few weeks back. But the China-Arab States Expo (read more about it in the main story alongside) has changed my answer to "A biz expo can also be a delectable melting pot of cultures, ideas and opportunities."

To start with, the venue atmosphere was so vibrant that I'd like to believe it actually helped deepen cooperation between China and the Arab world.

I can't pin it down to Yinchuan, the lovely capital city of the Ningxia Hui autonomous region. Nor can I attribute it to the resumption of on-site activities this year following the optimization of COVID-19 response measures. It's probably several factors at work.

The moment I entered the sprawling exhibition halls, I was immediately struck by the kaleidoscope of colors, the aromas of spices filling the air and, of course, the lively atmosphere. Countless booths lined the exhibition floor, each one a showcase of unique products of either China or an Arab nation.

A beehive of activity the expo was, over four hectic but fun-filled days, from the early hours until almost midnight. Countless visitors, participants, guests and on-duty reporters truly streamed through the aisles, their eyes filled with curiosity and excitement as they explored the wide array of products and cultural exhibits on display.

From exquisite handicrafts and ornate jewelry to traditional garments and delicious cuisine, every corner of the expo offered a glimpse into the rich heritage and diversity of the country concerned. Each booth had a story to tell, a unique narrative that spoke of centuries-old traditions, skilled craftsmanship and the entrepreneurial spirit of its country's people.

I stopped my wandering feet at the pavilion dedicated to renewable energy where companies displayed their solar panels, wind turbines, charging facilities and other green low-carbon technologies. The representatives shared their stories, elaborating how these collaborations were helping address climate change and ensuring energy security.

Moving on, I found myself in the section of digital cooperation. The air was abuzz with excitement as Chinese and Arab entrepreneurs showcased their startups, fintech solutions and e-commerce platforms.

Easier access to Chinese and Arabic specialties, crafts, garments, among others, for people in both regions is now made possible by the growing trade and the digital economy. It's a testament to the power of digital connectivity in fostering cultural exchanges and economic growth.

One of the highlights of my experience was interviewing participants from both China and Arab countries. I spoke with CEOs, government officials and young entrepreneurs, each with their unique perspectives and stories to share. Their enthusiasm was infectious and their stories painted a picture of collaboration, mutual respect and shared aspirations.

To reiterate, the expo wasn't just a platform for biz deals and trade pacts; it was a celebration of friendship, understanding and cultural exchanges.

As I left the expo, my notebook filled with stories and my mind buzzing with inspiration, I couldn't help but reflect on the immense potential of Sino-Arab cooperation. The expo has not only brought together governments and businesses, but fostered connections between peoples, creating a network of friendships that would continue to flourish long after the event concluded.

The expo opened my eyes to the power of collaboration, innovation and cultural exchanges in shaping a brighter future and in transforming an essentially business event into a platform for cross-cultural connections, where boundaries blurred and friendships were forged.

By now, you can probably guess I left Yinchuan with a renewed sense of optimism and a deep appreciation for the incredible strides being made by China and Arab countries in their journey toward shared prosperity.

That seemed poignant because the expo also served as a reminder that when unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, events like this have the power to not only promote win-win cooperation, but shape a new collective identity for people as global citizens.

Overall, it was an unforgettable experience indeed!