Execs optimistic about China's growth

A1: Among the goals related to this new development stage, we are particularly impressed by the Chinese government's specific requirements for the establishment of a modernized economic system, an increase in the nation's innovation capabilities and sustainable development.

At present, China is accelerating its development of "new infrastructure" innate to 5G and other emerging technologies, which will become a new engine for the development of the digital economy. As one of the leaders in 5G, Ericsson will continue to participate in the construction of China's 5G network by applying its advanced 5G technology, products, solutions, services and industry experience. We will work together with telecom operators to build better 5G networks, drive innovative applications of 5G in thousands of industries and provide a better network experience for individual users and businesses.

A2: The 14th Five-Year Plan and 2030 Sustainable Development Goals include new targets for economic development, bold steps in reform and opening up, and new progress in building an ecological civilization, which inspires great confidence and excitement.

Looking back on 129 years of development in the Chinese market, Ericsson is the only communications technology company to participate in the construction of China's telecommunications infrastructure from 1G to 5G. Time has proven that Ericsson is a partner that China can trust. In the future, we will continue this tradition.

A3: China's ambition for self-sufficiency as the world's second-largest economy is to be admired and recognized by the global community.

Ericsson believes that the coexistence of competition and cooperation is a fundamental part of the telecom industry becoming the largest industry in the world. Any technological progress that benefits all of mankind cannot be achieved without the joint efforts of the entire industry chain. Ericsson has always advocated free trade and embraces open competition and cooperation. We will be committed to working with our Chinese friends and partners in promoting innovation, development and progress in the field of communications technology.

A4: In addition to introducing the new FTZ Negative List, the Chinese government also enacted a series of initiatives and polices in 2020 that are aimed at further opening up and encouraging foreign investment. For example, both the implementation of The Foreign Investment Law and the establishment of the dual-circulation development paradigm made significant contributions to boosting the recovery of both the Chinese economy and the global economy, while also increasing foreign investors' confidence and protecting their interests in China.

Based on the paradigm of "dual circulation", MNCs in China will continue to play an important role in China's new journey towards becoming a modern socialist country, while enjoying further domestic growth bolstered by an optimized business environment and tremendous opportunities unleashed by this new development stage.

A5: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected us all, and it has highlighted that we all share the same planet and face the same global challenges. We agree that all sectors of society have a role to play in sustainable development. In this regard, Ericsson is a founding member of the 1.5°C Supply Chain Leaders, a new initiative that unites major multinational corporations to drive exponential climate action across global supply chains.

Furthermore, in our recent "Breaking the energy curve" report, we highlighted a unique network-level approach that enables exponential growth of data traffic without increasing energy consumption. Savings can be achieved by preparing the network with the latest technology solutions, activating energy-saving software, building 5G with precision, and operating site infrastructure intelligently. This approach also reduces the total cost of ownership. We provide support and guidance to businesses of all sizes to help reduce their energy consumption.