Representatives of 165 global organizations of people originally belonging to Chaozhou are attending the annual gathering in the city to strengthen exchanges and cooperation. 

The 23rd Teochew International Convention opened in Chaozhou, also known as Teochew, in Guangdong province on Saturday. 

About 15 million overseas Chinese with ancient Teochew ancestry live in more than 60 countries.

The United Nations' 80-year journey is a testament to global solidarity. The dedication of Teochew international associations reflects the indispensable role of civil society, said Siddharth Chatterjee, United Nations resident coordinator in China, at the opening ceremony of the convention. 

"The United Nations in China looks forward to working with you to build a more inclusive, prosperous and sustainable future," he said.

The convention saw the program launched on cooperation in the supply chain for boosting exports from and imports into Chaozhou.

An exhibition center on Teochew history and culture was opened in the city.