A total of 14 projects worth 2.57 billion yuan were signed during the China-Arab tourism business matchmaking conference on Aug 27. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Arab countries and China's Ningxia Hui autonomous region have strengthened cultural and tourism ties, signing agreements totaling 2.57 billion yuan ($358 million) at a conference in Yinchuan city on Aug 27.

The China-Arab tourism business matchmaking conference brought together around 300 participants, including diplomats from 28 countries and regions, tourism officials, industry representatives and experts. Under the theme "Sharing New Opportunities for Development and Drawing a New Blueprint for Win-Win Cooperation", the event featured business matchmaking sessions, promotional activities and a tourism market.