Female executives from various countries and industries convened in Beijing for a networking event on March 5 ahead of International Women's Day. 

International business executives share insights and discuss opportunities during the event, March 5, 2025. [Photo by China.org.cn]

Themed "Gathering the Wisdom and Strength of Women Through Discussion of Practical International Cooperation," the event was hosted by the China Economic Cooperation Center.

During the event, attendees shared their insights and discussed emerging opportunities, highlighting the importance of the Chinese market and its potential.

International business executives tour an exhibition in Beijing, March 5, 2025. [Photo by China.org.cn]

"If you look at this year's 'two sessions,' China has achieved its 5% growth target. Very few countries can reach this level, especially considering China's massive economic scale," said Aya Shimizu, assistant general manager of the Japan-China Economic Association Beijing Office.

Li Ye, vice president of Merck China, referenced recent remarks by a female CEO from Merck in a major publication, stating that the Chinese market is the most important among the company's high-growth markets.

Executives take part in a craft activity, March 5, 2025. [Photo by China.org.cn]

As prominent figures in the business community, these executives offered unique perspectives on female leadership.

"Women are playing an increasingly vital role in the business world," said Phan Thi Tra My, chairwoman of the Business Association of Vietnam in China. "As society places greater emphasis on gender equality, women's influence in the workplace will continue to expand."

Meanwhile, Cui Haixian, vice president of government affairs of IBM China, expressed hopes for creating a more equitable workplace environment for women in the AI era.

A networking event for women executives of international businesses in China is hosted ahead of International Women's Day in Beijing, March 5, 2025. [Photo by China.org.cn]

As International Women's Day approaches, these female leaders also shared empowering messages for women everywhere.

"Let's continue to break barriers, shatter the ceilings and inspire the coming generation," said Li Yiran, chief representative of Berlin Business Desk China.

"No matter how great the challenges, women's power and wisdom know no bounds. Each of us can achieve our own brilliance in our respective fields, and make the world more equal and beautiful," Phan emphasized.