International business leaders and government officials confident of growth
The International Business Leaders’ Advisory Council's online meeting
The International Business Leaders’ Advisory Council held an online meeting on Friday night, with 24 members communicating with top Shanghai government officials for three hours on subjects including the city’s epidemic control measures and economic growth.
Shanghai Party Secretary Li Qiang and Acting Mayor Gong Zheng attended the meeting, which was chaired by Michael Diekmann, chairman of the supervisory board of Allianze SE.
Li expressed his gratitude towards IBLAC members, many of whom helped Shanghai during the days of combating the coronavirus and its economic aftermath.
“Shanghai has made utmost efforts to deal with COVID-19,” Li said. “With the strictest measures, we strive to protect people’s health; and with the fastest speed, we restore the social order of work and life.”
Li said there was still great uncertainty surrounding global virus control and economic growth, "but the foundation for China’s long-term development and the great market potential of the country does not change."
“We sincerely hope all of you can actively contribute your wisdom and power, stick to the decision of investing and developing in Shanghai," Li said. "Together we can deal with the challenges, and find new opportunities amid changes."
Li added the city was firm in its determination to further open up to the world.
“Shanghai strives to play a central part to stabilize China’s production and supply chain, and thus to well serve the global market,” Li said.
Shanghai Acting Mayor Gong Zheng said the city will create more opportunities for investors with continued efforts to improve its business environment.
IBLAC members, including PwC’s Global Chairman Robert Moritz, ABB Chairman Peter Voser, President and CEO of L’Oréal Group Jean-Paul Agon, Chairman of Novartis Group Dr. Joerg Reinhardt and Chairman and CEO of General Motors Company Mary Barra, attended the video meeting.
They said the pandemic was a test for all cities to demonstrate comprehensive competitiveness, and Shanghai had earned a high score.
They also said they will make good use of the opportunities in Shanghai, push forward the development of new business models, and thus contribute more to Shanghai’s high-quality growth.
