Port city transformed by global conference

The summer meeting of the World Economic Forum, which returns to Dalian this year, has helped to transform the city's business landscape and put it on the map for international leaders.

The June 27-29 event, with its focus on scientific innovation and sustainable development, will be the sixth hosted by the city. The annual event, called the Annual Meeting of the New Champions or Summer Davos, has been held in China since 2007. It began in Dalian, which alternates as host with Tianjin.

"Summer Davos was the first high-end foreign conference project China had held at the time," said Liu Haiying, vice-chairman of the China Convention and Exhibition Society. The city charmed participants with its scenic coast, fresh seafood and hospitable locals, Liu said.

That led to an influx of investment. More than 20 companies signed contracts with the city at the 2015 event. The value of the contracts amounted to $8.14 billion, covering areas including finance, advanced manufacturing, e-commerce, pensions and real estate, local authorities said. Investors came from the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Poland and other nations.

Summer Davos has transformed the city's appearance. The new Dalian International Conference Center, adynamic structure covered in aluminum panels, was first used for the event in 2013. A citywide campaign cleaned up roads and ensured food safety.

"In addition, Dalian has accumulated many years of experience in the exhibition and convention industry, and is the most dynamic city in northeastern China," Liu said.

Gao Jifan, chairman and CEO of Trina Solar, a major industry player, has been a regular participant in Davos events since 2010.

"The events have been very well arranged by the Dalian government, which has enabled global participants to view Dalian as a civilized, safe and beautiful city," he said.

Contact the writers at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn and zhangxiaomin@chinadaily.com.cn