An underground station in Dalian was decorated for a few days to match the “Annual Meeting of Young Champions”. This is the official name for the Chinese branch of the World Economic Forum WEF. The streets and sidewalks in the metropolis of millions of people shine with cleanliness, access roads have been cleaned on a large scale and colorful flags are flying. Dalian, the coastal city in northeastern China, is

proud host of Summer Davos, as the meeting is also known from June 25 to 27. For the 15th time, the World Economic Forum is being held in China this year, again in the futuristic Dalian Convention Center. Right in front of it is a showroom with a new BMW model. In Shenyang, just 400 kilometers from Dalian, the German automaker produces sedans for the Chinese market.

Confidential discussions

Cars are significantly longer than in Europe. Anyone who can buy a BMW in China usually has a driver. Large screens for internet, video games or TV are designed to make the journey more enjoyable for those sitting in the back. The car presented is of course electric. The conference center looks like a huge shell and was designed by Viennese architects. The center can accommodate 7,000 visitors, while 1,500 are expected for the summer Davos. The multi-functionality of the building allows for quick separation of meeting rooms. Confidential discussions are possible and probably necessary because the starting position is not easy. Political and economic tensions between the US and China are rising.

China may be on the brink of a trade war with the EU. “Beijing does not want a trade war anyway,” writes China Daily, the English-language newspaper published by the Chinese Communist Party. But a few rows down, he is threatening countermeasures if the EU imposes special tariffs on certain electric cars from China. Given this situation, there is little optimism in Dalian. Of course, the global economy is growing, especially in Asia. However, WEF experts speak only of a cautious recovery. Geopolitical risks are high. Others, however, see business opportunities with China. Like Suhas Gopinath, CEO of Globals. The company deals with artificial intelligence and specializes in cyber security.

New technologies and knowledge transfer

Gopinath traveled to Dalian from Bangalore, India. His schedule of appointments is full for the next few days. “China has become something of an innovation hub and I’m very curious to see how the situation will evolve after the pandemic,” he says. “He made a big break for the summer Davos. I think it’s important for global companies to be here and watch what’s going on in China. The municipal government of Dalian city had already contacted Gopinath before his visit and proposed partners A Chinese student who speaks good English was made available as an interpreter. China wants to continue to present itself as an important economic partner.

Green industries and technologies, artificial intelligence – the People’s Republic develops a lot itself and sometimes encourages some cooperation with foreign companies. “We can learn from them instead of copying them. And we can also find our own way to improve technologies and other things in China,” says 21-year-old Yu Boyi from Shenyang. He is an excellent student, with excellent grades, a good command of the English language and perhaps one of the youngest participants in the summer Davos.

Cosmopolitan atmosphere

Many Chinese in Dalian share his confidence. Bottom line is that anyone who wants to work with us is welcome as long as they accept our terms. It is always about the transfer of know-how and opportunities through the rapid development of new technologies. Politics, on the other hand, is not so popular. “Countries should not entrench themselves. It is important for trade and companies to put aside the geopolitical aspects and focus more on the economy and development,” says Indian businessman Gopinath. “India cannot progress without China, and vice versa.”

Dalian, the seaside city, has made the best possible preparations for the summer Davos. Volunteers trained for weeks to welcome visitors in a cosmopolitan atmosphere. English should be spoken. Some still have difficulties with this. In hotels, friendly, smiling staff are ready to show you the way. Even the weather cooperates, 26 degrees, not too hot and not too cold.

Editor: Irini Anastasopoulou