Global experts and business leaders attending the China Development Forum (CDF) 2026 in Beijing praised China’s economic growth, openness, and innovation.
Renowned economist Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University said China’s focus on innovation, with three of the world’s six major innovation clusters located there, gives it strong development momentum and positively impacts the global economy. CEOs also highlighted China’s opportunities: Thermo Fisher’s Marc Casper noted the country’s commitment to high-quality growth and open markets, while Corning’s Wendell Weeks emphasized the potential in AI and materials. Mercedes-Benz’s Ola Kallenius described China as both a key market and an innovation hub, where long-term investments are crucial.
Columbia University professor Adam Tooze said Premier Li Qiang’s speech at the forum conveyed optimism about global cooperation and win-win outcomes. Siemens CEO Roland Busch added that CDF provides a unique platform to understand China’s policies and development strategy, and to discuss AI, innovation, sustainable development, and industrial transformation—issues with global relevance.
Credit – CGTN