"Shanghai Meetup: be part of the shared future" The Shanghai City Promotion Conference is being held in London.

On the 13th of October 2022, the Shanghai City Promotion Conference, with the theme of "Shanghai Meetup: be part of the shared future" was successfully held in London. During the event, the local chamber of commerce, institutions, and enterprises were provided with an overview of Shanghai's current business environment and informed of the city's latest development opportunities. In addition, people from all walks of life were invited to invest in and contribute to the development and prosperity of Shanghai.

The event was hosted by the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce and the China-Britain Business Council (CBBC) and was organised by Invest-Shanghai. Attendees included representatives from London & Partners, the City of London, Deloitte, KPMG, and Ernst &Young. Furthermore, over 50 representatives of Chinese-funded institutions in the UK attended the event, such as well-known banks, law firms, real estate companies, and local enterprises.

Bao Ling, Minister Counsellor for Commerce of the Chinese Embassy in the UK, highlighted in her compelling speech that there are many similarities between London and Shanghai. They are both dynamic, innovative, diverse, and inclusive cities. Since the two became sister cities in 2009, London and Shanghai have become closer and better acquainted. As a pioneer of China's new ethos, Shanghai is actively building an international economic, financial, trade, shipping, and scientific and technological innovation centre.

Minister Bao Ling also pointed out that the UK is an important trading partner of Shanghai and a source of foreign capital. In 2021, the trade between Shanghai and the UK increased with a year-over-year growth rate of 15.9%, and over 175 British enterprises had been established. By the end of 2021, the actual investment of the UK in Shanghai will have exceeded $4 billion US dollars. Overall, the Chinese market has shown resilience and growth, which makes the country's economic development appear to be promising.

Lise Bertelsen, Executive Director of CBBC, provided an insightful speech as well, in which she stated that she was very pleased to have the opportunity to cooperate with the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce to hold the event and that it is crucial to have exchanges and dialogues regarding Chinese-British relations. As Shanghai is the first choice for many British companies considering entering the Chinese market, Ms. Bertelsen praised the city for being dynamic, accommodating, and welcoming to British enterprises. Ms. Bertelsen also touched upon the CBBC's assistance to British enterprises that wish to invest in the development of Shanghai. The association has good relations with the Chinese and UK governments as it is a national commercial trade network for Britain that promotes trade and investment in China.

Ms. Zhu Yi, Vice Chairwoman of the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce, delivered a speech via video. Zhu Yi said that Shanghai is at the forefront of China's new international outlook and an essential window from which the world can begin to observe China. In particular, Shanghai is committed to creating a good business environment and has become one of the world's most attractive foreign investment hotspots and one of the first choices for multinational companies to invest in a long-term international strategy. From a worldwide perspective, Shanghai's economy has maintained steady development, displaying a solid foundation, resilience, and unquestionable potential. Zhu Yi concluded her speech by inviting friends worldwide to participate in the 2022 Shanghai City Promotion Conference on the 6th of November.

Mr. Xue Feng, president of Invest-Shanghai, gave a keynote speech entitled "Shanghai Meetup: be part of the shared future." He noted that Shanghai is the most important economic centre in China. In 2021, Shanghai's GDP reached 4.32 trillion yuan, ranking fourth globally. The per capita GDP reached 26,900 US dollars, equivalent to the GDP of moderately developed countries. Shanghai has also been given the title of "the most attractive city in China in the eyes of foreigners" for 11 consecutive years.

Xue Feng stated that the global economic situation is unpredictable, however, the goal of world peace and development will remain, and exchanges between countries will not stop. "Openness, innovation, and inclusiveness" have always been Shanghai's most distinctive urban features. Shanghai's economy is inextricably linked to the world's economy, and the city's future development goes hand in hand with the investment of global enterprises. At the conclusion of the speech, Xue Feng welcomed everyone to visit, learn, and invest in Shanghai.

Subsequently, Mr. Kong Fu'an, Vice Chairman of Shanghai Hongqiao International CBD, shared his views on "Hongqiao International Central Business District (hereinafter referred to as the CBD), a gateway to the Chinese market." Kong Fu'an introduced the advantages of the CBD in terms of location, convenient transportation, support for businesses, etc. The central government, various ministries, and commissions have provided the CBD with significant support, and several incentive policies have been implemented. In addition, the outstanding infrastructure constructions of the Central Business District (CBD) has attracted many international talents from multinational companies to relocate in Shanghai. The China International Import Expo is also held in the CBD's National Convention and Exhibition Center.

As a representative of an international company that has been successful in Shanghai, Mr. Lu Haiqing, Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of InterContinental Group Great China, and Ms. Kan, the Global Business Director of VCCP, were invited to share their views regarding business and development in Shanghai. During their speeches, both individuals expressed confidence in Shanghai's future development and directed guests to inquire about opportunities in Shanghai.