Zeng Peiyan Meets with Lou Gerstner, Former IBM Chairman

On May 17, 2011, Zeng Peiyan, Chairman of CCIEE, met with Lou Gerstner, former Chairman of IBM and currently serves as senior advisor of The Carlyle Group.

Zeng Peiyan spoke highly of the positive role Lou Gerstner has played in consistently promoting Sino-US relations. He pointed out that the Sino-US relations have progressed quickly in such fields as politics, economy, culture and technology since the establishment of diplomatic relations more than three decades ago. Building mutual trust is the core of the current Sino-US relations. Presently, Chinese government needs to focus on resolving its domestic problems. Chinese traditional culture advocates harmony and moderation and therefore, China will not export its value, nor does it have the intention of challenging the U.S.’ position. In the past, American firms’ investment in China has played an important role in accelerating China’s economic development. Nowadays, Chinese companies have developed vigorously with the ability to invest in the U.S., however, they have experienced many problems such as security check. China cherishes the achievement of the Sino-US relations and hopes to solve differences through multiple channels. Last March, CCIEE and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce co-hosted the First Sino-US CEO and Former Senior Officials Dialogue, hoping to eliminate concerns and misunderstandings between the two nations and achieve a win-win situation. Zeng Peiyan hoped that Lou Gerstner could continue his effort to enhance the Sino-US relations.

Lou Gerstner said, solving the existing problems in economy and trade is not only beneficial to the Sino-US relations, but also to the world economic development. Furthermore, it proves that a win-win situation can be realized in the Sino-US relations. He hoped both sides could take measures to free business circles in both nations from doubts and misgivings in terms of mutual investment, and thus ensuring a healthy and stable development of the Sino-US relations.