On February 8, 2024, H.E. Ambassador Hou Yue attended the "Chinese Digital Landscape" themed conference hosted jointly by the Norwegian-Chinese Chamber of Commerce (NCCC) and the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI). Ms. Elise Chen, Managing Director of NCCC, Ms. Kari Margrethe Osland, Director of NUPI, H.E. Mr. Svein Ole Sæther, former Norwegian Ambassador to China, and over 100 NCCC members, scholars were present.

Ambassador Hou stated that in 2023, amidst global economic turbulence, the Chinese economy managed to steadily rebound, achieving a GDP growth of 5.2%. In 2024, while the world economy continues to face uncertainties, the long-term positive trend of the Chinese economy remains unchanged. China will continue to implement the New Development Philosophy and promote high-quality development by enhancing economic efficiency while ensuring reasonable growth. Facts have proven that the more China develops, the more the world will benefit. China will persist in high-level opening-up and welcome global partners with open arms.

In line with the conference theme, Ambassador Hou also introduced China's achievements in digital economy development in recent years. She emphasized that the digital economy serves not only as a crucial engine for economic development but also as a significant pillar for new round of technological revolution. New technologies give rise to new models, new formats, and new opportunities, but they also bring new challenges. Therefore, China has proposed the "Global Data Security Initiative" and the "Global AI Governance Initiative," advocating for a more equal, inclusive, secure, and efficient digital space. China looks forward to collaborating with Norway and other parties to advance governance in the digital domain and ensure that all parties could benefit from the cutting-edge technologies.

Ambassador Hou stressed that the world is entering a new era of turmoil and transformation, standing at a critical crossroads. China advocates for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization and will continue to build a community with a shared future for mankind. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Norway. China always sees Norway as a partner, and the two countries share broad common ground in multilateralism, free trade, climate change, and many other areas. Norwegian Foreign Minister Mr. Espen Barth Eide has just concluded a successful visit to China, and the two sides have reached a series of important agreements. The Chinese Embassy in Norway is willing to work with all Norwegian friends to promote the development of bilateral relations and benefit the people of both countries.

Director Ms. Osland, former Ambassador H.E. Mr. Sæther, Senior Researcher Mr. Gåsemyr of NUPI, and President Kullmann of the Nordic Business House spoke on topics such as China-Norway relations and China's digital economy development. Participants believe that as we stand at a new starting point on the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the bilateral relations are facing new opportunities. Amid the global uncertainties and instabilities, it is more crucial than ever for all parties to work together to address common challenges. They also expressed that it is reassuring to see the continuous improvement of the Chinese economy and the further development of China’s high-level opening-up. They would continue to play an active role in deepening pragmatic cooperation between the two countries and jointly embrace the bright future for bilateral relations.