Scholars, government officials and business leaders from around the world gathered at the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) last Friday for a seminar exploring ways to advance Asia-Pacific connectivity and regional economic integration through structural reforms.

UIBE Vice President Wang Qiang presided over the opening ceremony.

In his opening remarks, UIBE President Zhao Zhongxiu described the Asia-Pacific as a pivotal engine for global economic growth. He called on APEC economies to pursue structural reforms for upgraded connectivity amid sweeping global economic shifts.

Zhao noted that UIBE has long been actively engaged in international exchanges and cooperation, staying committed to fostering economic development and collaboration across the Asia-Pacific. He hoped the seminar would deliver valuable insights and intellectual support for deeper Asia-Pacific connectivity.

During the keynote speech session, three industry experts offered in-depth analyses of regional collaboration. Zhang Yansheng, fellow at the Chinese Academy of Macroeconomic Research, explored practical approaches to elevating regional connectivity through structural reforms in the evolving economic landscape. Atul Dalakoti, executive director at the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, shared perspectives on cooperation among Global South countries. Liu Chenyang, director of Nankai University's APEC Study Center, elaborated on the intrinsic correlation between APEC structural reforms and stronger regional connectivity.

Li Xiaomeng, director of UIBE's Department of International Relations, chaired the afternoon parallel forums centered on threes themes: "Deepening Cross-Sectoral Policy Coordination and Strategic Alignment Mechanisms," "Building an Open and Transparent Trade Facilitation Ecosystem," and "Synergistic Development of Talent Exchanges and Innovation Ecosystem."

Panelists included Wang Yanchun, deputy secretary-general of China Customs Institute; Gu Yu, deputy director of the Internet and New Economy Professional Committee of the China Society of Economic Reform; Tu Xinquan, holder of the WTO Chair at UIBE; Li Ming, dean of UIBE's School of Government; and Lan Qingxin, vice dean of UIBE's School of International Trade and Economics. Participants from the United States, Japan, Argentina, Mexico, South Korea and Thailand also took part in the discussions.

The seminar offered a vital exchange platform for Asia-Pacific experts, scholars, officials and business representatives to share their perspectives on structural reforms and regional connectivity.