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Entity Type: Domestic Association or Organization

Lao Chinese Chamber of Commerce

Written by CMP Staff on .

The Lao Chinese Chamber of Commerce was established on July 29, 2015, after receiving approval from Laos’ Ministry of Industry and Trade. Initially proposed in 2011 by Lin Zhenchao (林振潮), then-chairman of the Vientiane Chinese Council, the organization was formally launched in 2014-2015 under the leadership of Zhang Mingqiang (張明強) as its first president. Based in the Longbasha Villa district, the Chamber claimed it would serve as a platform to “unite overseas Chinese businesspeople” and “contribute to China’s Belt and Road Initiative.” The organization said it aimed to facilitate Sino-Lao business cooperation under the guidance of the Chinese Embassy in Laos while maintaining close ties with overseas Chinese community organizations. The Chamber described itself as the first Chinese business organization established in Laos by overseas Chinese residents.

Paris Association of French-Chinese Friendship

Written by CMP Staff on .

The France-China Friendship Exchange Association, established on November 13, 1989, is a Paris-based organization founded by Louis Marchandier, who serves as its current president. The organization claims to “build a bridge of friendship and business opportunities between Europe and China,” providing consulting services and facilitating exchanges. Jean-Paul Bonnes, described as an honorary deputy director at the French Interior Ministry, joined as vice president to strengthen ties with French government departments. The association has collaborated with the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (中國人民對外友好協會), the Shanghai Chamber of Commerce, and various Chinese government bodies, saying it works to promote bilateral cultural, economic, technological, and commercial exchanges. The Chinese organization has been described as the “public face” of the Chinese Communist Party’s United Front Work Department. Marchandier previously served as legal counsel for Total Group and various French banking and retail organizations.