Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng held separate meetings with Citigroup Chair John Dugan and Carlyle Group CEO Harvey Schwartz in Beijing on Friday, signaling China's commitment to fostering international economic partnerships. The discussions highlighted China's post-pandemic economic recovery and its strategy to deepen global financial integration.
He, a senior member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee's Political Bureau, emphasized that China's economy has shown "strong resilience and great vitality" amid global uncertainties. "Our high-quality development initiatives are creating tangible results," he stated, pointing to recent growth indicators and technological advancements.
The vice premier outlined China's plans to expand market access for foreign enterprises, particularly in financial services. "We welcome institutions like Citigroup and Carlyle to participate in building China's capital markets," He said, underscoring opportunities in green finance and digital transformation sectors.
Both global financial leaders expressed confidence in China's economic trajectory. Dugan confirmed Citigroup's plans to "enhance investment cooperation" through expanded mainland operations, while Schwartz committed to Carlyle's "long-term strategic partnership" with Chinese enterprises.
