The maiden voyage of the "Weihai-Tanzania" shipping service is ready to set sail from Weihai Port. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

The launching ceremony for the "Weihai-Tanzania" shipping service was held at Weihai Port of Shandong Port Group (SPG) on May 29. The maiden voyage, loaded with 830 metric tons of goods such as engineering vehicle and metal parts, is expected to complete the journey from Weihai to Tanzania's Zanzibar Port in 30 days. This marks the fourth foreign trade service initiated at Weihai Port since the onset of SPG's integration efforts, and the first international service to Africa.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Tanzania. Over the decades, the two countries have seen fruitful exchange and cooperation outcomes in realms including economy, trade, personnel and infrastructure. 

The launch of the "Weihai-Tanzania" shipping service is expected to refine the Sino-Africa exchange channel, expand industrial cooperation, stimulate new impetus for trade collaboration, deepen bilateral understanding and friendship, and help usher in a new chapter in the economic and trade exchange between China and Tanzania.

Backed by Weihai's strategic location as a significant node city in the Belt and Road Initiative, Weihai Port will continue to strengthen the integration of port areas, industrial parks and urban zones. These efforts aim to help Weihai expand opening-up, import more premium resources from African countries, and support the global expansion of Weihai's major industries and projects. This approach will enable joint participation in the Belt and Road Initiative and foster prosperous development.