Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining recently met with Hubertus von Baumbach, chairman of the Shareholders' Committee of Boehringer Ingelheim.

Chen encouraged the company to further strengthen its innovation-driven research and development capabilities and deepen its business footprint in the city. He called for deeper collaboration in new drug development, including fundamental research, clinical trials, and manufacturing, and welcomed the company's continued role in fostering an open and dynamic innovation ecosystem.

Von Baumbach said that the visit by the company's Shareholders' Committee and Executive Board had provided members with a first-hand view of Shanghai's development and innovation vitality, reinforcing their confidence in sustained, long-term engagement in China.

He added that Boehringer Ingelheim would continue to increase its investment in innovation in Shanghai, collaborate with partners to advance R&D for global markets, and introduce a broader portfolio of innovative medicines and service models across both human pharmaceuticals and animal health, with the ultimate aim of delivering greater benefits to patients worldwide.

Shanghai Party Secretary Chen Jining also met with Andreas Pecher, president and CEO of Zeiss Group.

Chen encouraged the company to leverage its distinctive strengths to further enhance the role of its regional headquarters, expand its R&D and manufacturing presence in the city, and play an active role in fostering a more competitive industrial ecosystem.

Pecher said the continuity and strategic direction of China's development planning, along with Shanghai's efficient and pragmatic business environment, have strengthened the company's confidence in deepening its investment in China.

He added that with the launch of construction of the Zeiss Greater China headquarters campus in Shanghai, the company will work with partners to advance technological and industrial innovation, provide more professional and higher-quality products and solutions, and further promote sustainable development.