Reactions to keynote speech

“I am truly heartened by President Xi’s fervent defense of globalization. Despite the challenges, I still believe the benefits of our global system far outweigh the costs and, as the president suggested, effective collaboration can lead to ever more inclusive prosperity and a peaceful world . ... This morning’s address by President Xi is further proof that China’s leadership has proved to be ... responsive, responsible and ready to lead the betterment of our global economic order.” Okendo Lewis-Gayle, chairman of Harambe Entrepreneur Alliance of young African businesspeople “I am very impressed with President Xi’s elaboration on globalization. He used almost half of his speech to comment on globalization. It targeted the rising protectionism and populism around the world. Globalization is neither a fairy tale nor a devil; it is a trend. It depends on how you manage it. Also, I am very impressed with how President Xi elaborated on China’s contribution to the world economy. China is not merely a recipient of benefits, but also a contributor.” Wang Jianlin, founder and chairman of Dalian Wanda Group “We’re living in a globally interdependent world and we cannot re-create artificial borders. Globalization is a win-win situation and we have a common density as humankind. Your commitment, Mr President, to the innovative, open and inclusive world is crucial. We cannot go back to old policies and it will be inappropriate for us to use old methods. As you committed to approach global governance and global cooperation in a new way, we need new ideas here to refresh the new world.” Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of World Economic Forum “Today President Xi gave a great speech on economic globalization. Globalization is a trend and it has contributed a lot to the world’s economic growth. Even if there are many problems, such as that associated with wealth polarization, overall, it benefits the (world) economy a lot and benefits many countries a lot. Xi said China is committed to free trade and an open economy and fighting trade protectionism, which is a good message for the global economy.” Henry Huining Cao, finance professor, Cheung Kong Graduate School of Business