The China Europe International Business School, the EU-China Business Association and the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU organized the CEIBS Insights 9th Europe Forum on the theme of Mutual Trust and Win-Win: Toward Another 20 years of EU-China Economic Cooperation on November 14, 2023 in Brussels.
The CEIBS Brussels Forum brought together decision-makers, entrepreneurs, and experts from China and the EU across dual venues in Brussels and Shanghai. President Wang Hong underscored the significant growth in China-EU economic and trade exchanges over the past two decades, with trade volume nearly nine-fold and two-way investment stock surpassing $230 billion.
The forum's theme, 'Mutual Trust and Win-Win,' not only encapsulates the spirit of China-EU cooperation but also charts a course for deeper collaboration in a new global context. Gwenn Sonck, Executive Director of the EU-China Business Association, emphasized the enduring attractiveness of the Chinese market for EU businesses, citing a recent survey where 60% still find it an appealing investment destination.
Ambassador Fu Cong outlined three key factors essential for a closer China-EU relationship: increased communication and dialogue to foster mutual trust, concerted actions to manage differences, and innovative expansion into areas like climate change, energy security, and public health.
Jorge Toledo, Ambassador of the European Union to China, highlighted the EU's commitment to free trade and openness, emphasizing the importance of a stable and mutually beneficial relationship. Despite challenges and differing values, the EU aspires to build a relationship of mutual trust with China.
Two insightful roundtable discussions delved into Creating Stronger EU-China Economic Ties and Climate Change Challenges, underscoring the importance of dialogue and cooperation. Pascal Lamy, Former Director General of the World Trade Organisation, emphasized CEIBS as a successful example of China-EU cooperation, while Eric Cornuel, President of EFMD, called for closer cooperation in the current geopolitical environment.
In his closing remarks, Xu Chen, Chairman of the China Chamber of Commerce to the EU, emphasized the need for open and respectful dialogue to address challenges in China-EU relations.
CEIBS President (European) Dominique Turpin concluded by highlighting the importance of "IMPACT": Innovative Ideas, Mutual Understanding, Pragmatism, Action, Constructive Communication, and Trust.
