Beijing International Investment and Trade Conference 2024

Mr. Guo Huaigang, Chairman of China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Beijing,

Distinguished Guests, 

Ladies and gentlemen,

I thank the Beijing Municipal Government, the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) Beijing Sub-Council, and the Beijing International Chamber of Commerce for the invitation to speak at the Beijing International Fair for Investment and Trade. The theme for this fair, "Extensive Consultation, Shared Benefits, Win-win Cooperation", not only guides today's discussions but also echoes many of the foundational principles of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Our world today faces unprecedented challenges—global conflicts, climate change, geopolitical divides and social inequalities. Addressing these requires accelerated action. Here in China, the United Nations works through various initiatives and partnerships across many sectors to help drive progress on the SDGs. We are committed to fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth. SDG 17, which aims to revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development, exemplifies our belief in the power of international cooperation to achieve a better world for all. In this spirit, the UN in China has also sought to advocate for enhancing international trade and investment flows in a manner that boosts prosperity, innovation, and sustainable development.

Here, we also note Beijing's role as a host and leader in this dialogue. As a vibrant metropolis that has witnessed remarkable growth over decades, Beijing represents both the achievements and challenges of rapid urban development. It stands as a symbol of how dynamic economies can lead on the global stage by integrating sustainability into the growth narratives. 

This fair in Beijing is a testament to the city's pivotal role in shaping global trade and fostering international cooperation.

The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes international trade as an engine for inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction, and an important means to achieve the SDGs.

However, as the UN Secretary-General, Mr. António Guterres, said, “Trade has become a double-edged sword: a source of both prosperity and inequality; interconnection and dependence; economic innovation and environmental degradation.” 

Through open and inclusive dialogues, like those happening here today, we can work to ensure that the benefits of economic activities are more broadly shared, leading to more equitable and sustainable outcomes for all stakeholders.

Today, we are gathered not only to discuss business but to forge pathways that lead to sustainable development. 

The conversations and dialogues here hold the potential to contribute to the 2030 Agenda. Our collective efforts in realms such as investment, financial services, digital trade, and legal frameworks are more than economic activities; they are opportunities to craft a future that aligns with our aspirations for sustainable development. We must use today as an opportunity to strengthen partnerships and accelerate our impact.

Let us move forward with a renewed commitment to fostering an environment where extensive consultation leads to shared benefits. Let us strive to embody the spirit of cooperation, not just in our negotiations and agreements, but in our approach to global challenges and opportunities. Let the dialogues at this fair not only just be successful in economic terms but also demonstrate how trade and investment can contribute to a sustainable future.

I wish you a successful conference. Thank you.