On May 13, local time, San Jose, the capital city of Costa Rica, welcomed guests from all walks of life attending the 12th Worldwide Zhongshan Association Convention. From May 13 to 15, more than 500 overseas Chinese whose hometown is Zhongshan, from nearly 20 countries and regions will gather together. Representatives from the CPPCC, the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council, Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the People's Government of Guangdong Province, and Zhongshan Municipal Government will also attend the event to congratulate and witness this important moment, as it is the first time such a conference is held in Central and South America. 

Worldwide Zhongshan Association Convention was founded in 1996. It has developed into a large-scale international event that integrates "people-to-people diplomacy, economic and trade negotiations, academic seminars, cultural exchanges, family reunions, and seeking roots". It has gained strong influence and reputation. The convention is held every three years and has a liaison office in Zhongshan.