This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. To commemorate this milestone, a financial empowerment and industrial cooperation exchange meeting between Wuxi City in east China and Paris was held in Paris on Thursday. The event signifies a significant step in Wuxi’s efforts to expand its global openness and strengthen international partnerships.
During the meeting, multiple cooperation agreements were signed, including the establishment of the permanent venue for the International Private Equity Market Forum’s China chapter in Wuxi, Jiangsu Province. This strategic cooperation positions Wuxi as a preferred destination for leading European companies, high-quality projects, and premium capital.
“These activities and exchanges showcase the capabilities and potential of these Chinese cities,” said Gilles-Henry Garault, vice president of the French Chamber of Industry and Commerce. “By highlighting their strengths, these cities strive to secure cooperation opportunities.”
Since the beginning of this year, Wuxi has accelerated the development of new quality productive forces, continually expanding its “friend circle” worldwide. Between January and April, Wuxi’s total foreign trade import and export value reached 232.81 billion yuan (approximately \$32.75 billion), marking a year-on-year increase of 8.2 percent—the highest value for the same period in history.
Zhao Jianjun, mayor of Wuxi, led a delegation to visit France and attended the event. In his speech, Zhao expressed enthusiasm for deepening economic and trade cooperation with France. “We aim to strengthen collaboration in key industries such as automotive, electronics, and new energy,” he said. “We support more small and high-quality French enterprises in expanding into the Chinese market and continuously expand cooperation in agriculture, food, wine, and other areas.”
Zhao also pledged to embark on a new chapter of financial empowerment by maintaining a high-level cycle of technology, industry, and finance. He emphasized promoting quality financial resources to enhance Wuxi’s “465” modern industrial cluster, aiming for increased industry efficiency, project growth, and capital appreciation.
