BEIJING, December 8, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- State Administration for Industry and Commerce Minister Zhang Mao and US Ambassador to China Max Baucus were among the high-profile speakers at the 15th Annual Appreciation Reception and Seminar hosted by the American Chamber of Commerce in China. More than 340 local and central government officials, AmCham China members and reporters attended the event to celebrate the spirit of cooperation between the Chinese government and American business. This year's theme was "Advancing Together with Steadfast Cooperation," reflecting AmCham China's efforts to enhance cooperation between the Chinese and US governments and business community to help ensure a positive economic future and transition process.
"The huge market of China and the capabilities and advantages of the Unites States in terms of human resources and technology are bonding us closer together," Zhang said. "Harmonious cooperation will benefit both sides. Cooperation accords not only with our fundamental national interests, but also with the economic growth and stability of the world."
The minister also discussed the role of the SAIC in ensuring healthy competition in the economy. "Competition is part and parcel of a market economy. It is the driving force for economic development," Zhang said. "We need to get it right in terms of the legislative and enforcement aspects, to break down the silos of administrative barriers, and the artificially created market barriers. At the same time, we need to establish mechanisms for information disclosure and greater transparency so that an orderly market will be maintained, with equal rights for all market players, equal opportunities and equal rules."
Baucus, who took up his role in March this year, said he had spent the past few months meeting with many American companies as well as senior Chinese leaders. "My message is very clear: America's involvement in the Chinese economy is critical to the success of both countries," he said. "A prosperous and stable China is good for China, good for America, good for the region, good for business and good for the world. We welcome a strong, rising, prosperous China."
He also emphasized the importance of the US-China Bilateral Investment Treaty currently under negotiation, saying that in discussions between Presidents Barack Obama and Xi Jinping the topic was discussed many times. "Do it now, and let's do it right the first time," Baucus said of the treaty.
A panel discussion during the seminar generated lively debate on current and future prospects for China's economy and the reform process. Hosted by television presented Tian Wei, the panel included Zhang Xiaoqiang, Vice Chairman of China Center for International Economic Exchanges; Long Guoqiang, Director General of General Office of the Development Research Center of the State Council; Zhang Yansheng, Secretary-General, Academic Committee of National Development and Reform Commission; and Timothy Stratford, a member of the AmCham China Board of Governors and former chairman.
In his remarks, AmCham China Chairman Gregory Gilligan said: "We already know that the rebalancing of China's economy won't be easy, and it won't happen quickly. But I'd like to make clear to everyone in the room that AmCham China and our members are heavily invested in China's future, and committed to playing a positive role in the work of the reform process."
About AmCham China:
The American Chamber of Commerce in the People's Republic of China (AmCham China) is a non-profit organization which represents US companies and individuals doing business in China. AmCham China's membership comprises more than 3,800 individuals from over 1,000 companies. It has more than 50 industry- and issue-specific forums and committees, offers unique services such as the Business Visa Program, holds a wide range of networking and informational events, and meets with US and Chinese officials to discuss challenges and opportunities facing US firms doing business in China. The Chamber's mission is to help American companies succeed in China through advocacy, information, networking and business support services. For more information, visit: www.amchamchina.org.
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