Global business leaders give unanimous vote of confidence in China's economy

Global business leaders attending this year's China Development Forum have unanimously given a vote of confidence in the long-term growth potential of the Chinese economy, pledging to continue investing in the promising market.

Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainties, the two-day forum served as a platform for the world's leading entrepreneurs and representatives from international organizations to discuss China's role in global trade and economic growth.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang struck an optimistic tone in his keynote address to the opening ceremony of the forum, emphasizing China's economic resilience and commitment to multilateral cooperation.

His remarks were met with extensive approval from the international attendees.

"The thing he talked about is going forward in the long run, the Chinese government has a lot of tool boxes, has a lot of ample space in the tool box to reinvest, to re-boost the economy. That gives us a high level of confidence there," said Lu Haiqing, global vice president of IHG Hotels and Resorts.

"He talked about many things. I like very much the importance that they gave to cooperation. Because for us individual markets in developing countries, [operating] without international cooperation is very difficult," said Dilma Rousseff, president of New Development Bank.

Similar sentiments were echoed by other CEOs from all over the world.

"Our long-term confidence in China is reflected in our continued investment. Over the past five years, we have invested more than 4.3 billion RMB. As a representative of Thai business community, we strongly believe that China is the future," said Saravoot Yoovidhya, CEO of TCP Group, a leading Thai enterprise in the beverage and food industry.

"We are providing technology for the green transition. What is China doing is very aligned with our global strategy," said Kim Fausing, CEO of Danfoss, a world-leading refrigeration industry giant.

Wendell Weeks, CEO of American multinational technology company Corning emphasized pragmatism over geopolitics when he said, "I am a simple technologist. I don't do politics, I invent things."

The forum saw notable American participation, including Apple CEO Tim Cook and U.S. Senator Steve Daines. The U.S. delegation was the largest at the forum, with 27 companies represented.

"So many U.S. CEOs coming to China shows there is a great desire to continue to have a vibrant relationship, and continue to find ways for the two countries to work together," said Sean Stein, president of U.S.-China Business Council.

Global business leaders give unanimous vote of confidence in China's economy

Global business leaders give unanimous vote of confidence in China's economy

Residents in Port-au-Prince, the capital of Haiti, are demanding that the government take action to combat the escalating gang violence.

The Caribbean country's security situation has deteriorated sharply in recent months, as escalating attacks against civilians are eroding the few areas that remain free from gang influence.

In February alone, the escalating violence in Port-au-Prince has forced nearly 60,000 people to flee their homes.

Currently, over 1 million people are displaced across Haiti -- a figure that has tripled in the past year.

Armed gangs are seizing control of more neighborhoods, raising fears that the capital could fall at any moment.

Half of the country's population is facing acute food shortages, and many displaced people have sought refuge in makeshift shelters, where access to food, water and medical care is severely limited.

Meanwhile, gang violence is intensifying, with kidnappings, extortion and killings plunging the country, especially the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, deeper into turmoil.

"We have nowhere to go. All of those sleeping at the gas station have nowhere to go. I just have one thing to say to the government: they have to do something for us," said Laurie Evanie Felix, a local vendor.

Inflation is soaring, basic services are collapsing, and food insecurity is worsening.

Amidst this turmoil, the rise in gang violence persists, even with the presence of UN-backed international forces led by Kenya.

As conditions worsen, millions are wondering when they will see any sustainable relief.

"Help! Government of my country! Help! We can't run anymore! Government of my country, do something," said Kettia Sylvain, another vendor.

Desperate Haitians urge gov't to take action amid escalating gang violence

Desperate Haitians urge gov't to take action amid escalating gang violence