President Xi Jinping on Friday addressed the opening ceremony of the 17th China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit via video link.

The annual expo, and the business and investment summit between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations began in Nanning, capital city of South China's Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region.

His speech was well received by officials and experts from all walks of life. The following are some quotes from them.

Xu Ningning, executive president of the China-ASEAN Business Council

Xu Ningning [Photo by Liu Yukun/chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xi Jinping's speech in this year's China-ASEAN Expo and China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit marked the first-time ever in the expo's history. Xi's speech addressed the significance of China-ASEAN cooperation. His four proposals pointed out a direction for the future China-ASEAN cooperation and offered important guidance to a closer, more stable and more mutually beneficial China-ASEAN relation.

Adam Bralczyk, consul-general of Poland in Guangzhou

Adam Bralczyk [Photo by Liu Yukun/chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xin Jinping's speech presented a spirit of cooperation. It also boosted confidence that the economic cooperation between China and ASEAN countries can contribute to the economic recovery of the whole world.

Muhammad Irfan, trade and investment counselor of the Commercial Section of Consulate-General of Pakistan in Guangzhou

Muhammad Irfan [Photo by Liu Yukun/chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xi Jinping pointed out that by leveraging the current digital wave in economic development, like 5G technology, businesses will grow, industries will see further development, and people will benefit. Xi also addressed the importance of global trade. With world economy gradually recovering from the COVID-10, officials and businesses leaders should also work to support businesses and development of digital economy.

Zaimah Osman, trade consul of Consulate-General of Malaysia

Zaimah Osman [Photo by Liu Yukun/chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xi Jinping mentioned that China supports ASEAN's development and promotes business communication and cooperation between China and ASEAN countries. It is a very good move by China to enhance the relationship between China and ASEAN. President Xi also said how China supported ASEAN in combating COVID-19 and how China and ASEAN shared experience in fighting the pandemic. Only when counties handle COVID-19 properly can the world see further economic recovery and more prosperous businesses.

Yan Hao, president of Pacific Construction

Yan Hao [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xi Jinping has pointed out a direction for us to further deepen our relations with companies in ASEAN countries, and boosted our confidence to continue expanding our businesses in ASEAN. Our company will adhere to the government's guidelines of economic development and strive for further business growth.

Zeng Guangan, chairman of Guangxi LiuGong Group Co Ltd

Zeng Guangan [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

President Xi Jinping's speech showed China's perseverance and actions of opening up. His words have encouraged companies like us to manage our overseas business in a more open, cooperative way, and to leverage the platform of CAEXPO for more cooperation in both domestic and overseas markets.