This photo taken on Aug. 12, 2024 shows the Drum Tower seen from the Jingshan Hill on the Beijing Central Axis on a sunny day in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Li Xin)
A number of top global executives have arrived in Beijing for the China Development Forum (CDF) on Sunday, reaffirming their confidence in China’s growth and commitment to its vast market.
Business leaders including Apple CEO Tim Cook, Siemens AG Chairman Roland Busch, Mercedes-Benz Group Chairman Ola Källenius, and BMW Group Chairman Oliver Zipse are set to attend the forum, signaling broad international interest in China’s economic outlook, according to the CDF.
Running Sunday and Monday, the CDF is a top-level platform for dialogue between China and global business leaders. This year’s theme “Unleashing Development Momentum for Stable Growth of Global Economy,” features 12 symposiums and several closed-door sessions, covering topics such as healthcare, consumption, artificial intelligence and sustainable supply chains.
Ahead of the forum, Cook shared his arrival in Beijing on Sina Weibo in Jingshan Park with Chinese entrepreneur Yang Tianzhen on Saturday, posting “Hello, Beijing! I can’t think of a better way to kick off my time in China than a beautiful walk with Yang Tianzhen. Thanks AlexJ for capturing the view on your iPhone!”
Global companies are keen to bolster their presence in China. “We continue to invest heavily in China. It’s our largest market. We are planning $2.1 billion investment over the next five years,” Michael Nelson, CEO of US direct selling firm Amway, told the Global Times on Sunday. Nelson expressed concerns over US tariffs, but emphasized that his company remains focused on the health and lifespan of Chinese consumers.
Before the forum, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao met with BMW’s Oliver Zipse, reiterating China’s pledge to expand high-level opening-up and maintain a stable business environment.
Zipse said BMW remains confident in China’s outlook and plans to strengthen the company’s presence in China. BMW will expand investment, accelerate local production and research, and deepen strategic cooperation with Chinese partners.
Global Times
