Chaoyang Meets Amsterdam: Business, Innovation and New Connections
What opportunities could bring Beijing's Chaoyang District and the Netherlands closer together? This was one of the central questions discussed during the Beijing Chaoyang × Netherlands Key Industries Cooperation and Exchange Meeting, held in Amsterdam in October.
The meeting formed part of a European visit to Germany and the Netherlands by a delegation led by Nie Jieying, District Mayor of Beijing's Chaoyang District. Government representatives, business leaders and international organisations gathered to exchange ideas on future cooperation, with a particular focus on technology and urban development.
Among the participants was Antoine Bruneel, President of the Benelux Chamber of Commerce North China | Beijing, who delivered a speech representing the Chamber and its business community.
Where Chaoyang and the Netherlands Find Common Ground
Artificial intelligence, data and smart-city solutions featured prominently in the discussions. Chaoyang's growing technology sector and the Netherlands' experience in digital innovation and sustainable urban development offer several areas of shared interest.
Mayor Nie Jieying spoke about Chaoyang's ambition to work more closely with Amsterdam, particularly in bringing new technologies into practical use.
The discussions followed a China–Netherlands Smart City Academic Forum held in Chaoyang in September, where participants examined how AI could support urban governance and elderly care.
A Business Perspective on Cooperation
During his speech, Antoine Bruneel brought the perspective of the Benelux business community to the discussion, emphasising the importance of practical cooperation between companies and local partners.
For many international businesses, Chaoyang is already a familiar part of Beijing. The district is home to a large international business community and plays an important role in connecting foreign companies with the Chinese market.
Events like the Amsterdam meeting provide a valuable opportunity to exchange perspectives, better understand local priorities and identify where businesses can contribute.
Beyond the formal discussions, the visit also offered a chance to establish new contacts and continue conversations with partners on both sides.
For the Benelux Chamber, these exchanges are an important part of supporting its members and encouraging practical business cooperation between China and the Benelux.