All nations in the world, the United States included, have experienced changes over the past 1- or 15 years; but few have seen such swift developments as China. Its growth has eclipsed that of many western countries and it has made vast leaps forward in societal and economic progress.
The speed of this shift, the complicated turn that the world's economy has taken, and the interconnectedness of today's political climate make it more important than ever for the US and China to forge a strong and effective bond. Hillary Clinton remarked on that need earlier this month.
"Our relationship has grown closer and more consequential," she said at the opening session of the US-China Strategic and Economic Dialogue, "and the web of connections that link our nations is increasing. As a result, this dialog is even more necessary today than it was when it began."
As Mrs. Clinton suggests, dialog is central to any good relationship and that's why I'm pleased to announce a special edition of the New York Forum on May 22. We have dedicated a half-day to America's relationship with China, during which we will engage with core issues of concern such as immigration, the emerging markets, and US-Chinese business opportunities. The New York Forum has invited a group of talented individuals to speak - Andrew Ross Sorkin, financial columnist for the New York Times, Michael R. Bloomberg, New York City's mayor, Ruogu Li, chairman and president of Export-Import Bank of China and Wang Shi, chairman of China Vanke Group.
Our program will address a series of vital issues. The day will begin with a report back from the US campaign trail by three of the New York Times' political journalists. Then, Mayor Bloomberg and Ricardo Salinas Pliego, the founder and chairman of Grupo Salinas, will discuss entrepreneurship and innovation, including the thorny issue of immigration, with reference to a McKinsey study of creative immigration policies that are being adopted by countries across the world (though not, as yet, by the US).
We will investigate the keys to economic dynamism and consider what the fastest route out of the current "great stagnation" might be. And we will talk about change. As China approaches a leadership transition and America potentially faces something similar our speakers will assess the risks and opportunities on the horizon for business leaders who wish to navigate their way through that emerging landscape.
Our special event on May 22 acknowledges the crucial importance of the US-Chinese connection and aspires to add to the broader picture of our mutual understanding. I warmly invite you to join us either in person or on Twitter.