Gong Zheng, mayor of Shanghai, met on Sept 23 with Robert B. Ford, chairman of the board and CEO of Abbott, and George R. Oliver, chairman of the board and CEO of Johnson Controls.

The executives came to Shanghai to participate in the International Business Leaders' Advisory Council for the Major of Shanghai, which took place in the city on Sept 22.

Gong Zheng, mayor of Shanghai, shakes hands with Robert B. Ford, chairman of the board and CEO of Abbott. [Photo/Zhang Chunhai]

The major expressed his gratitude to them for their participation in the IBLAC and their contributions to the rapid development of the city.

Gong also encouraged IBLAC members to provide more insights, expand their businesses in Shanghai, promote sci-tech innovation and cooperation, support the city's green and low-carbon progress, and introduce more innovative products and services through the China International Import Expo.

Shanghai will continue optimizing its business environment to advance greater development of enterprises, Gong added.

According to Ford and Oliver, multinational corporations have enjoyed rapid development in recent decades in Shanghai. They are optimistic about the city's future, and are willing to increase investment and closely cooperate with local partners to promote its sustainable economic prosperity.

They cited the IBLAC as a model of constructive exchanges and cooperation between authorities and enterprises, anticipating its next meeting on Oct 12, 2025.

Gong Zheng, mayor of Shanghai, meets with George R. Oliver, chairman of the board and CEO of Johnson Controls. [Photo/Zhang Chunhai]