Leaders from around the globe have lauded the China International Import Expo's (CIIE) significant contributions to multilateral trade and sustainable development. The 7th edition of CIIE is currently underway in Shanghai, showcasing 3,496 exhibitors from 129 countries and regions, positioning it as a premier global business event.
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), emphasized China's longstanding support for the WTO since 2001. \"As geopolitical tensions intensify and signs of fracturing and fragmentation emerge in global trade and investment, it is crucial for political and business leaders around the world to collaborate on preserving and reforming the multilateral trading system to reflect the changing economic landscape,\" she stated.
Rebeca Grynspan Mayufis, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, highlighted the expansive impact of China's trade activities. \"China's export and import activities have dramatic effects even very far from its shores. The expo sent a message of openness that businesses worldwide can connect, forge partnerships, and contribute to a more prosperous and interconnected global economy,\" she noted.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised the CIIE for providing a platform where companies of all sizes can showcase their capabilities and attract new investments. \"Multinational cooperation for free trade and sustainability should serve as a tool to actively advance global progress, rather than as a means to suppress competition, promote unfair advantages, or create conflict,\" he added.
Denisa Sakova, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of the Slovak Republic, acknowledged the expo as a vital platform for international trade development and new global partnerships. \"Slovakia has benefited greatly from participating in the expo, a place to showcase the best and latest products and innovations to Chinese consumers,\" she said.
Kazakh Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov remarked on the CIIE's role in strengthening international economic integration. \"For Kazakhstan, the expo helps to expand international cooperation with foreign partners and offers new opportunities for distributing Kazakh goods in international markets,\" he explained.
Uzbek Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov emphasized Uzbekistan's strategic use of the CIIE to enhance its presence in the growing Chinese market. \"The expo will definitely deepen cooperation and development in trade, economy, investment, and other areas,\" he stated.
Serbian Prime Minister Milos Vucevic highlighted the CIIE as more than just a business event. \"As a platform for enterprises, people, and cultures to come together from around the world, the CIIE fosters not only business and commerce but also friendship and mutual understanding,\" he concluded.
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World leaders hail CIIE's role in promoting trade, development
cgtn.com
