Global Cooperation and High-Quality Development Highlighted at the Beijing CBD Forum

On June 17, 2026, the inaugural roundtable for diplomatic envoys was hosted as part of the Beijing CBD Forum Annual Conference, providing a unique platform for dialogue among key international stakeholders. The event attracted over 100 participants, including ambassadors, diplomats from various nations such as Peru, Maldives, and North Macedonia, alongside business leaders from both multinational corporations and Chinese enterprises.

The forum served as a corridor for sharing insights into vital areas like cross-border investment, international trade, the digital economy, and technological innovation, all aimed at fostering high-quality development across borders.

Xia Linmao, the executive vice mayor of Beijing, emphasized that China is entering the first year of its 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). He reiterated the commitment of Beijing to pursue high-quality development, signaling that the city will strive to deepen reforms and enhance its opening-up policy. Furthermore, the city aims to provide better services and support for international talent and foreign investors, illustrating its intent to create a more inviting environment for global business.

In line with the forum's agenda, Fan Daqi, vice president of the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies, highlighted that the discussions at the event would enhance understanding of China's developmental trajectory and future strategic initiatives.

Several ambassadors used this opportunity to strengthen trade ties and advocate for increased industrial cooperation with China. Fazeel Najeeb, the Maldivian ambassador, remarked on China's ongoing commitment to openness, which he believes facilitates shared developmental opportunities. According to Najeeb, China’s advancements in investment, technology, and industrial supply chains have not only been beneficial to its economy but have also created opportunities for global progress, particularly in fields like the digital economy, fintech, and logistics.

Carlos Vasquez, the Peruvian ambassador to China, underscored the importance of people-to-people exchanges in bolstering economic relationships. He pointed out that Peru's engagement in the Belt and Road Initiative since 2019 showcases its commitment to expanded connectivity and will lead to increased bilateral trade and investment in the future.

The conversations at the forum delved deeper into connectivity and innovation, with two specific roundtable discussions focusing on global trade cooperation and the innovation-driven transformation of industries. Yan Rui, secretary-general of the Europe Asia Center, pointed out the dual meaning of innovation: it encompasses technological progression as well as new methods for countries to improve mutual understanding. Yan reiterated the organization’s role in linking technologies, businesses, educational institutions, and policies, stating a commitment to amplifying cooperation between Chinese and European partners.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of new research on Beijing’s CBD’s international outreach and systemic openings. Zhu Wenbo, general manager of the Great Strategic Think Tank, presented findings underscoring how Beijing CBD's growing global stature is indicative of the capital’s commitment to international collaboration. The study revealed that the area is now home to 125 regional headquarters from multinational firms, boasting the highest concentration in China, with foreign-funded research centers branching into cutting-edge sectors such as the digital economy and artificial intelligence. Moreover, the report highlighted a marked interest from Chinese firms in exploring foreign markets—over 85% of surveyed companies indicated a heightened willingness to expand internationally compared to five years ago, citing Southeast Asia as a favored destination.

Karl Isaksson, CEO of Kreab Worldwide, praised the mature business ecosystem within Beijing CBD as a major advantageous factor for multinational corporations. He noted that the strong network among businesses and professional service providers in the area is invaluable. Isaksson emphasized that the broad array of companies and the clustering effect enabled multinational firms to readily access the necessary services to thrive in a competitive landscape.

As the discussions unfolded, the overall sentiment was one of optimism regarding future collaborations, spurred by China’s openness and the interconnectedness of the global economy. The insights shared during the forum are expected to pave the way for innovative partnerships and strategic alliances that will touch multiple facets of global trade and development for years to come.