FORTUNE Global Forum Concludes in Beijing

The three-day 2005 FORTUNE Global Forum, a prestigious world business summit, concluded in Beijing on May 18.

About 840 of the world's top business, political and academic leaders, including 77 of the world's top-500 enterprises, participated in the event, according to Rik Kirkland, managing editor of FORTUNE. About 600 journalists from home and abroad covered the event.

Because of the weather, the opening ceremony was held at the Great Hall of the People, where Chinese President Hu Jintao delivered a keynote speech welcoming participants from around the globe. Kirkland said he was pleased to see Chinese leaders attend the forum, attributing the forum's success to their aid.

The 2005 FORTUNE Global Forum included Sports and Culture roundtables on the first day, as well as 11 conferences and 15 seminars in the second and third days. Entrepreneurs and economists exchanged views on Chinese and Asian finance, science, technology, energy and trade.

On the evening of May 17, a "Beijing's Night" reception held at the Temple of Heaven was hailed as a great success by the guests. Beijing Mayor Wang Qishan gave a wonderful speech laced with humour that was well-received. Spouses of the VIPs and CEOs in attendance savoured some of the best that the Chinese culture has to offer, including a visit to the Great Wall and dining on authentic Chinese food.

Peter Wolff, a senior vice-president of international affairs for Time Warner Incorporated, said a good forum requires needs attractive content, senior participants and an ideal local partner.

"Obviously we have found the ideal cooperative partner," Wolff said, adding that he believes the relationship between Time Warner and China will continue to grow.