Xi Jinping Appeals to Global CEOs Amid Trade Tensions

China's President Xi Jinping met with multinational CEOs to urge protection of global industry and supply chains amid U.S. trade tensions. Addressing the concerns over China's economic health, he emphasized cooperation and promised governmental action to support businesses. Foreign investment in China has been impacted by geopolitical factors.

On Friday, China's President Xi Jinping called on multinational corporate leaders to help safeguard global industry and supply chains. The request comes as Beijing attempts to calm foreign businesses' concerns over the Chinese economy amid escalating trade tensions with the United States.

Addressing an audience that featured executives from major firms such as AstraZeneca, FedEx, and Toyota, Xi acknowledged the challenges facing businesses. He pledged that the government would take steps to support a stable economic environment favorable to both domestic and international actors.

With foreign direct investment showing a stark decline, primarily due to geopolitical tensions, Xi's appeal for a cooperative approach was clear. However, skepticism remains about how much these dialogues will influence future economic policies and trade relations, especially as former U.S. President Donald Trump signals a renewal of tariff clashes.

(With inputs from agencies.)