June 25 – Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining met with Polish President Andrzej Duda.

Chen Jining (right), Party secretary of Shanghai, meets with Andrzej Duda, president of Poland, in Shanghai on June 25. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Chen highlighted that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Poland. As China's economic hub and a forefront window of reform and opening-up, Shanghai is currently deepening its development as an international center for economy, finance, trade, shipping, and science and technology innovation. He welcomed Polish enterprises to utilize platforms like the China International Import Expo to introduce more high-quality products to the Chinese market. Chen assured that Shanghai will continue to foster a top-notch business environment characterized by market orientation, the rule of law, and international standards, providing efficient and convenient services for Polish companies looking to invest and operate in the city.

President Duda expressed his admiration for Shanghai as a city with significant international economic influence. He noted the remarkable changes and developments in the city's economy and society with each visit. Duda expressed his hope for further strengthening practical cooperation between the two sides in various fields, including trade, agriculture, and consumption. He emphasized the potential for expanding new areas of cooperation, such as technological innovation, talent development, and nurturing new quality productive forces. Both sides are aiming for mutual development and shared success.

June 26 – Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining met with Paul Hudson, CEO of multinational pharmaceutical company Sanofi.

Chen Jining (right), Party secretary of Shanghai, meets with Paul Hudson, CEO of Sanofi, in Shanghai on June 26. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Chen emphasized that biomedicine is one of Shanghai's three key pioneering industries. He noted that Shanghai is leveraging its role as a testing ground for reform and opening-up by introducing a series of pioneering policies and measures across various fields, such as basic research, clinical trials, regulatory approval, and health insurance. These efforts aim to improve several aspects of biomedicine, including competitive advantages in innovation, industry, market, and overall cost. Chen extended an invitation for Sanofi to seize the opportunities presented by Shanghai's industrial transformation. He encouraged Sanofi to increase its investment and presence in Shanghai, especially in innovation, research and development, and manufacturing. Chen assured that Shanghai will continue to foster a top-tier business environment characterized by market orientation, the rule of law, and international standards. The city will also optimize its "service package" system for key enterprises, providing more efficient, high-quality, and convenient services to ensure long-term, stable, and predictable business development, aiming for mutual cooperation and success.

Paul Hudson expressed that Sanofi has achieved significant growth in the Chinese market over the past 40 years and remains committed to continuous investment and development. He praised Shanghai's excellent business environment and its comprehensive advantages in industry, technology, and talent. He also noted that the foresight and long-term nature of the city's policies have greatly benefited companies, boosting their confidence. Hudson stated that Sanofi will actively enhance its communication and coordination efforts, expand its business presence in Shanghai, and introduce more innovative technologies and products to better serve patients.

June 28 – Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining met with Andrew Cutler, chair of the International Group of P&I Clubs and chief executive officer of Britannia P&I, along with key representatives from member associations.

Chen Jining (right), Party secretary of Shanghai, meets with Andrew Cutler, chair of the International Group of P&I Clubs and CEO of Britannia P&I, in Shanghai on June 28. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Chen provided an overview of Shanghai's economic and social development. He also emphasized that Shanghai is accelerating the development of becoming an international shipping center with a focus on green development, digital transformation, and legal safeguards.

Chen acknowledged the vital role of the International Group of P&I Clubs in advancing global shipping trade and expressed optimism about the broad scope for future cooperation. He highlighted the desire for deeper discussions on introducing more new businesses and platforms in Shanghai. Chen stressed the importance of leveraging resources and expertise in facilitating personnel exchanges and training, which will enhance the city's core competitiveness and global influence as an international shipping center. He assured that Shanghai will continue to support global shipping enterprises and organizations in achieving greater development.

Andrew Cutler, along with other key executives from the International Group of P&I Clubs, shared their thoughts and suggestions based on their associations' development and collaboration with China. They collectively expressed their strong optimism about Shanghai's prospects as an international shipping center, citing its rapid development and distinct advantages. The representatives stated that they are committed to embracing trends in digitalization, intelligence, and green development, aiming to deepen practical cooperation around new businesses and business models. They also emphasized the importance of sharing best practices and experiences in order to address global challenges such as climate change.