China News Service, Beijing, November 21 (Reporter Ma Jiajia) The 6th China-Switzerland Economic Forum ended successfully in Beijing on the 20th. Business leaders and politicians from China and Switzerland are paying attention to sustainable development issues.
Executives from Swiss multinational companies such as Nestlé, ABB, Swiss Re, and SGS, as well as representatives from Chinese companies such as Alibaba and Greatview Packaging, discussed innovative measures for sustainable development.
Photo courtesy of the Swiss Embassy in China
Swiss Ambassador to China Luo Zhiyi emphasized the commitment of Swiss companies to China's sustainable development in his keynote speech: "Swiss companies collaborate in China to provide sustainable, innovative and creative solutions to global concerns."
The China-Switzerland Economic Forum was founded in 2010 and is held in Beijing every two years. So far, it is the largest economic summit between China and Switzerland.
To commemorate the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Switzerland, this year's forum was jointly organized by the Swiss Embassy in China and the Swiss Chamber of Commerce in China, with the theme centered on sustainable development and the role of technology in achieving sustainable development goals.
The forum has held a series of seminars in October, and the event on the 20th is the closing ceremony of the 2020 Sino-Swiss Economic Forum.
In the two panel discussions that evening, speakers exchanged views on the opportunities brought by circular business models, green initiatives, and technological advancement to achieve sustainable development goals.
Photo courtesy of the Swiss Embassy in China
Nestlé Greater China Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Roxde pointed out that the epidemic has caused important changes in consumer behavior.
Consumers are now always looking for healthier and natural organic products.
Customers are increasingly aware of the necessity of environmental protection.
Nestlé is currently adopting a circular business model. For example, Nestlé promises to achieve 100% recyclable or reusable packaging by 2025 and achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Chen Donghui, President of Swiss Re China, said: “The company needs specific goals to solve sustainability issues. Swiss Re has set clear goals. For example, we will shift our business to 100% ESG-compliant investments in 2017. The new crown epidemic is very powerful. It reminds us that we must set ambitious goals. In addition, linkages with international partners will also help the company and society achieve these goals."
Wang Huiyao, Chairman and Director of the China and Globalization Think Tank (CCG), said: “The new crown epidemic has sounded the alarm for all mankind. We realize that respect for nature is essential. Globalization will usher in a new turning point. If it is to be achieved by 2026 China’s net zero carbon emissions and other goals should be turned to concrete practices of sustainable development. In China, it is very important to continue to encourage green energy development and other trends. However, we must remember that 1.4 billion people are used to fast delivery and a large amount of waste is therefore Produce. Education will be the key to shaping green behavior."
Marie-Gabrielle Ineichen-Fleisch, State Secretary of the Swiss Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs, who was unable to be present due to the epidemic, posted an online speech via video.
She especially emphasized the close bilateral economic relations between Switzerland and China, saying that they will continue to implement the bilateral free trade agreement.
It is reported that Switzerland and China signed the "China-Switzerland Free Trade Agreement" in 2013, which is the first free trade agreement between China and a country in continental Europe.
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