ABIDJAN, Nov. 4 (Xinhua) -- The China International Import Expo (CIIE) has become an indispensable platform for global businesses, reflecting a mutually beneficial model of cooperation, a former Nigerien diplomat has said.

As the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) is around the corner, former Nigerien Ambassador to Canada Abdou Boubacar said recently that the CIIE provides unprecedented opportunities for global producers and cements China's position as a major open global market.

During the CIIE, Shanghai will become a place of win-win cooperation for those working in the intelligent industry and information technology, food and agricultural products, medical equipment and healthcare products, and other fields, said the former diplomat.

The CIIE serves not only as a dynamic market platform, but also as a demonstration of China's development paradigm and a driving force for high-level opening-up, he said, adding that it represents a global public good that benefits the international community.

"The African continent is rich in specialty goods such as cocoa, coffee, chili peppers, honey, palm oil, and handicrafts," he said, "This is an excellent opportunity for us to showcase Africa's strengths."