Global Teochew Community Unites: 23rd International Teochew Convention Held

On November 28 to 30, 2025, the 23rd International Teochew Convention, themed "Returning to Chaozhou" and centered on culture, was successfully held in Chaozhou, bringing together Teochew people from around the world.

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The convention's meticulously designed cultural tour, "Teochew Homecoming: An Enduring Legacy," reawakened the deep-rooted Teochew identity shared by compatriots worldwide, deepening their sense of nostalgia with each step. A particularly touching moment came during the "Passing the Torch" ceremony at Zhenhai Lou Square, where the homecoming sentiment reached its peak. Amid 178 fluttering flags, representatives of Teochew associations worldwide formed the Chinese characters for "Chaozhou" with their banners, symbolizing the global Teochew community embracing as one. For Wu Linsheng, the 73-year-old Supervisor of the Teo Chew Association of Southern California, USA, this was his first visit to Chaozhou. He said with emotion, "At that moment of planting the flag, I truly felt where my roots lie. We must encourage the next generation to come home more often!" 

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"The ancient city made me deeply feel the warmth and hospitality of the Chaozhou people. Chaozhou’s profound cultural heritage and distinctive cuisine are remarkable," said Li Shaoming, Consultant to the Russia Chaoshan Chamber of Commerce. "These unique cultural elements have not only enriched the convention but also given me a renewed understanding and deeper attachment to Chaozhou. I believe Chaozhou culture will surely go global, allowing more people to understand and appreciate it."

At the "Sangzi Xing, Fengcheng Yu" Investment Promotion Seminar, loud applause erupted as the screen unveiled the results: RMB 15.141 billion in contracted investments across 16 major projects. This gathering was not only an emotional reunion across oceans but also a conference for shared development. The opening ceremony featured the launch of the "Chaozhou Products Going Global, Quality Products Entering Chaozhou" supply chain cooperation initiative, with multiple chambers signing Memorandums of Understanding on site.

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Ng Guan Seng, Personal Standing Council Member of the International Teochew Federation and President of the Malaysia Teochew Chamber of Commerce, noted that the city's rejuvenated appearance and improved development environment had refreshed his perception of Chaozhou and strengthened the willingness of overseas Teochew communities to invest back home. Chen Runqin, President of the New Zealand Teochew Association, who has frequently between New Zealand and Chaozhou in recent years, also remarked, "More and more Teochew compatriots worldwide are recognizing the development potential of our homeland and are actively participating in this wave of progress."

During the commemorative event "Teochew Converging from Four Seas: Harmony and Coexistence – Inheritance, Innovation, and Creating the Future," held for the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, the "Harmony and Coexistence" Global Teochew Sustainable Development Initiative was officially launched. UN Resident Coordinator in China, Siddharth Chatterjee, stated, "This initiative demonstrates how communities can drive the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals from the grassroots level by mobilizing diaspora networks, resources, and expertise."

To systematically document, preserve, and promote the Teochew tradition of charity and compassion, the 23rd International Teochew Convention initiated the compilation of "Chronicles of Teochew Philanthropy." Approximately one million words of materials have been collected so far, covering over 700 philanthropists. This marks an initial achievement in digitally presenting, permanently preserving, efficiently retrieving, and openly sharing the charitable deeds of the Teochew community.

Patriotism remains at the heart of the long-standing charitable spirit of the Teochew people. Throughout history, they have never hesitated to support the nation during times of crisis. During the convention, the special exhibition "Patriotic Hearts of the Overseas Teochew: Supporting the Motherland's War of Resistance" drew many attendees. "The sacrifices of these pioneers are truly moving and make me proud of my Teochew heritage," one visitor remarked.

It was announced that the 24th International Teochew Convention will be held in Singapore in 2027. (Text by Che Yuan Yuan; Photo provided by Chaozhou Municipal Committee Publicity Department)