Congratulations to China on the successful commencement of the third China International Import Expo. Holding this important event as scheduled is a signal of China's rapid recovery from the pandemic. CIIE shows China's determination to share its infinite opportunities with the world, and to foster openness and mutual benefit.

In our diverse and volatile world, CIIE offers a valuable platform to come together to create and share a brighter future. I have been immensely privileged to attend the past two CIIEs, both of which I am sure exceeded the expectations of those who organized them, and those who attended them. So it is with great regret that because of COVID-19 I have been unable to attend this year's event. My colleagues have told me of President Xi Jinping's insightful and far-sighted remarks at the opening ceremony.

Under his inspirational leadership, there can be no doubt about China's continued progress as it recovers from the pandemic and overcomes any challenges it faces in the future. In fact, the CIIE itself has become a beacon of reassurance about China's future.