Female executives gather in Fengtai for Intl Women's Day celebration

A networking event for female executives from foreign businesses in China was co-hosted by the China Economic Cooperation Center and Beijing's Fengtai district at Eve Castle on Friday, in celebration of International Women's Day on March 8.

Female executives attend a networking event at Eve Castle in Beijing's Fengtai district, March 6, 2026. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

Nearly 40 female executives from over 30 foreign chambers of commerce and companies in China attended the event, including the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, British Chamber of Commerce in China, FinnCham China, IBM and Pfizer.

Female executives engage in a flower arrangement event at Eve Castle, Beijing's Fengtai district, March 6, 2026. [Photo by Chen Xinyan/China.org.cn]

During the event, attendees discussed Fengtai's industrial layout and business environment, highlighting its vast opportunities and potential.

Deputy District Mayor Tang Zhaohui highlighted Fengtai's significant geographic advantages, favorable investment policies and rich culture, welcoming foreign companies to invest for mutual success and shared development.

"I was truly inspired by Eve Castle's contributions to preserving Chinese traditional culture and enhancing people's lives," said Aya Shimizu, assistant general manager of the Japan-China Economic Association Beijing Office, reflecting on her first visit to the venue.

Goh Chye Poh, membership deputy director of the Malaysian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China, also recognized the support of Fengtai district as she shared her experiences as an international student in China.

The executives also offered their perspectives on female empowerment in the workplace.

"More and more women are joining the workforce, and the job environment has really changed for the better," said Shimizu, emphasizing increasing support and accommodation for women in the workplace.

Guan Yunpeng, head of the government affairs team at Pfizer China, stressed the crucial role women play as bridges in the workplace, particularly in government affairs, where exceptional communication skills are invaluable.

As International Women's Day is celebrated around the world, the executives shared words of encouragement for women everywhere.

"Start from action, move from intention to intentional actions. Your confidence will grow with your actions," said Gao Su, chief representative of Landesbank Baden-Wuerttemberg Beijing Office.

"International Women's Day is a big deal in China; everyone knows about it and respects the contributions of women," added Shimizu. "This gathering is important for us and also provides an opportunity for everyone, including men, to learn and appreciate the meaning of this day."