2026 is the APEC China Year. It also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Papua New Guinea, and the 10th anniversary of the friendship-city partnership between Shenzhen and Port Moresby.

On July 31, the "2026 Charming China (Guangdong) – Lingnan Culture Travels to the South Pacific" series, hosted by the Information Office of the People's Government of Guangdong Province, officially kicked off at the China-PNG Friendship School – Butuka Academy in Port Moresby.

Mr. Deng Hong, Deputy Director General of the Information Office of Guangdong Provincial Government said at the opening ceremony that PNG is an important APEC member and a key partner in the Belt and Road Initiative. He noted that Butuka Academy, supported by Shenzhen, stands as a landmark public project and a testament to the growing friendship between Guangdong and PNG.