The opening ceremony of the Shaoxing Thematic Day is held in Dubai on Nov 16. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

The half-year-long Expo Dubai 2020, which was originally scheduled to open a year ago, was launched on Oct 1 this year due to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Zhejiang Week - Shaoxing Thematic Day event opened on Nov 16 to introduce Shaoxing to the world and expand the city's international ties.

A textile industry fair, which is part of the event, is being held from Nov 17 to 19. More than 40 Shaoxing companies are seeking cooperation opportunities with over 100 purchasers from the Middle East and South Asia.

Shaoxing's tourism attractions are introduced and showcased. [Photo/zjol.com.cn]

Shaoxing is an important city along the Belt and Road. In 2020, the city's trade volume with countries in the Middle East was valued at 27.29 billion yuan.

The United Arab Emirates is Shaoxing's biggest trade partner. Shaoxing's exports to the UAE in 2020 were valued at 5.49 billion yuan, while Shaoxing companies are investing in 48 projects in the country.