SHANGHAI, Nov. 5 (Guangming Online) — At the opening ceremony of the 8th China International Import Expo (CIIE) in east China's Shanghai, global leaders and business representatives shared their perspectives on the event, underscoring its growing international influence and China’s firm commitment to high-standard opening up.

Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former Prime Minister of France praised the CIIE’s rapid growth, noting that it has become “an event you simply can’t miss” and “one of the most important meetings in international trade,” attracting an increasing number of French companies each year.

Hamidur Rashid, a former UN economist described the CIIE as emphasizing that China’s openness to imports benefits global economic cooperation.

Ayeni Nonye Patricia, the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council expressed optimism that the expo would strengthen bilateral trade between China and Nigeria, while also unlocking Nigeria’s export potential.

Alfonso C. Mejuto Rodriguez, a senior representative from Interpol highlighted that events like the CIIE demonstrate how global markets, old and new, must continue to open and connect, contributing to shared prosperity.

For exhibitors, a Swedish exhibitor representative noted that the CIIE provides a valuable bridge between business and policy.

With diverse voices from around the world echoing a shared message, the CIIE continues to stand as a vivid example of China’s determination to pursue openness, foster global cooperation, and create new opportunities for shared growth.