In April and May, NEAR member regional governments Henan Province and Hubei Province of China inaugurated acting governors Wang Kai, the former Secretary of Changchun, and Wang Zhonglin, the former Secretary of Wuhan City.

After earning a doctoral degree in History of Economic Thought, Governor Wang Kai of Henan Province held important roles in Guangxi Autonomous Region, Jilin Province, and other regions. After obtaining a doctoral degree in Agricultural Economic Management, Governor Wang Zhonglin of Hubei Province assumed important posts in different cities in Shandong Province over a period of 30 years. He was inaugurated as the secretary of Wuhan City, Hubei Province, when Covid-19 occurred in 2020 and made considerable contributions in dealing with the situation.

Since Henan Province and Hubei Province joined NEAR in 1996 and 2006, the two provinces have actively participated in international events hosted by NEAR, such as the General Assembly, Working Committee, subcommittees, and the Young Leaders Forum.

NEAR Secretary General Kim Ok-chae sent congratulatory letters to the newly appointed acting governors Wang Kai and Wang Zhonglinon on May 14. There, he asked for their attendance at the 13^th General Assembly this year and for their active participation and support to enhance exchange and cooperation between Northeast Asia regional governments.

※ Cover image(from left): Acting governor of Henan Province Wang Kai, acting governor of Hubei Province Wang Zhonglin