Contribution of overseas Chinese hailed

Overseas Chinese entrepreneurs have made a remarkable contribution to the world economy and boosted communication between China and the world, according to experts at an international conference in Bangkok.

"Over the past decades, Chinese entrepreneurs have advocated the long-lasting Chinese tradition of hardworking and the spirit of being honest, caring and faithful", said Chen Xu, director of the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of the State Council.

"They've also contributed a lot to the social, economic and cultural prosperity in countries where they are living, with the belief of seeking peace and common interests," she emphasized during the 16th World Chinese Entrepreneurs Convention in Bangkok.

Nearly 4,000 Chinese entrepreneurs from 50 countries participated in the convention from Saturday to Monday. Organized by the Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, it aims at establishing an economic network linking Chinese entrepreneurs worldwide.

During her speech, Chen encouraged Chinese entrepreneurs to grab the opportunity and make the most of China's modernization trend, further bridging the country with the rest of the world for improving their livelihood as well as the development of China.

Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, the Chinese government has attached great importance to giving full play to the role of overseas Chinese, developing friendly relations between China and the countries and regions where overseas Chinese live, and promoting world peace.

"Overseas Chinese entrepreneurs have made significant contributions to China's prosperity. They are an illustration of the Chinese fighting spirit with their braveness, wisdom and expertise," said Wan Lijun, president of the All-China Federation of Returned Overseas.

Also, he said that overseas Chinese entrepreneurs should have confidence in China and the country's future as it has made outstanding achievements in various fields, including poverty alleviation, modernization and trade with the whole world.

Historical period

"We are now in a historical period of turbulence and transformation. However, the shared aim of the world for seeking peace, development and cooperation remains unchanged. Overseas Chinese entrepreneurs should serve as 'peace envoys' for building a community with a shared future for mankind," he noted.

Thailand, located in the heart of Southeast Asia, has many Chinese entrepreneurs who have blood ties with China.

"Despite the present international situation that remains tense and turbulent, China provides us with great business opportunities under the Belt and Road Initiative for regional development," said Wichai Kinchong Choi, senior vice-president of Kasikornbank, a leading Thai bank.

He highlighted the great potential for China's green innovations, such as electric vehicles, that will boost the region's economy.

Dhanin Chearavanont, chairman of Charoen Pokphand Group, one of the world's largest producers of animal feed and livestock, praised the business acumen of Chinese investors, whom he said were able to spot opportunities to expand their businesses despite the uncertainties brought about by rapidly changing geopolitical circumstances.

During the convention, he also invited attendees to invest in Thailand's Eastern Economic Corridor, which is part of the Thai government's plan, known as Thailand 4.0, to transform its economy toward the use of technology and innovation through environment-friendly policies.

"While the EEC is envisioned as a high-tech hub, investments in technology and innovation to upgrade the manufacturing sector is important for the future," Dhanin said.