Economic Conference 'Hamburg Summit': 380 Decision Makers From 15 Countries Participate

"Only a Strong China can Ensure Peace and Stability"

HAMBURG, Germany, Sept. 12 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- "Only a strong China can ensure peace and stability," emphasized Nikolaus W. Schues, Conference Chairman, former President, Hamburg Chamber of Commerce, at the closing ceremony of the three-day international economic conference "The Hamburg Summit: China meets Europe". As China is taking over more and more global responsibility, the European Union should welcome and support this development. The Hamburg Summit has proven that it is important and right to keep up the dialogue, even in times of political unrest.

Prof. Edmund Phelps, Nobel Laureate, pointed out: "The emergence of China and much of Asia opens new horizons for Western innovation. But this is a two-way street as China offers its innovations to the West. Competition will be stiff and uncertainty will be great. May all people live in such a dynamic age."

In total, 380 decision makers from 15 countries took part in the conference - a significantly higher number of international guests compared to the last Hamburg Summit. In addition to questions regarding the economic development of the People's Republic as well as the future of European-Chinese relations, the speeches and discussions especially focused on environmental and climate protection. "Blaming each other does not bring any progress. We have to find solutions based on partnerships, because we are all in the same boat," said Schues. This also applies to the reforms that are still needed in China despite all progress, notably in banking, in the social field as well as in infrastructure. The conference had been a neutral platform, not only to intensify trade relations, but also to exchange ideas and experiences in order to master social challenges.

The Hamburg Chamber of Commerce hosted the third edition of "The Hamburg Summit: China meets Europe". On the last day of the conference, keynote speakers besides Phelps included Pierre Simon, President of Eurochambres, the Association of European Chambers of Commerce and Industry, as well as Lee Kuan Yew, Minister Mentor, Republic of Singapore. For more information or to download footage free of charge please visit the conference website at http://www.hamburg-summit.com.