导语：Speech by Mr Rani Jarkas, Chairman of Cedrus Group
Distinguished government leaders, Excellencies, distinguished guests, partners, and friends,
Good afternoon.
On behalf of Cedrus Group, it is my great pleasure to welcome all of you to the International Cuisine and Sustainable Innovation Forum. I would also like to extend my sincere gratitude to the government authorities, diplomatic missions, business leaders, media representatives, and all our partners and friends whose support and participation have made today’s gathering possible.
It is particularly meaningful that we gather here in Beijing, one of the world’s leading international capitals and a city that serves as an important gateway for global cultural exchange, innovation, and cooperation. Within Beijing, Chaoyang District stands at the forefront of international engagement. Home to the largest concentration of embassies in China, numerous international organizations, multinational corporations, and a vibrant global community, Chaoyang has long been a meeting point of cultures, ideas, and opportunities. As the city’s most international district, it provides a unique platform for fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and collaboration across borders.
We are especially honored to host this event as part of the 2026 “Taste of Chaoyang” International Gourmet Festival under the guidance of the Chaoyang District Bureau of Commerce. Bringing together representatives from government, industry, academia, media, and the international community, this forum reflects our shared commitment to dialogue, collaboration, and sustainable development.
At first glance, cuisine may seem like a topic centered on food and hospitality. Yet in reality, it represents something much larger. Food connects people across cultures. It reflects history, identity, and increasingly our collective responsibility to build a more sustainable future. When we discuss international cuisine and sustainable innovation today, we are not simply talking about what is on our plates—we are discussing how culture, business, technology, and innovation can work together to create meaningful and lasting impact.
Cedrus Group is founded in 2001 as a global Swiss Investment Bank specializing in investment management, M&A, IPOs and direct private investments. Over the years, Cedrus Group has remained committed to promoting international exchange and cooperation by facilitating inbound and outbound investments. We have supported Chinese companies in expanding internationally while helping global businesses and investors identify opportunities in China. In many ways, our role has always been about building bridges—between economies, industries, and people.
At the same time, we recognize that meaningful international exchange extends beyond capital and commerce. Lasting connections are also built through culture, shared experiences, and human interaction. This is why, alongside our financial activities, we have actively supported initiatives that promote cultural dialogue, international cooperation, and lifestyle brands that bring people together such as Sumac. From the very beginning, Sumac has been envisioned as more than a restaurant group. It is a platform that celebrates culture, hospitality, and connection. Through food, art, design, lifestyle collaborations, and cultural exchanges, it creates opportunities for people from different backgrounds to meet, exchange ideas, and better understand one another as we are doing today.
Looking ahead, we hope to continue building stronger cultural exchange and people to people exchange between China and the world. On one hand, we want to cooperate and help bring outstanding international brands, businesses, talent, and resources into Beijing and China. On the other hand, we are supporting Chinese enterprises, cultural initiatives, and innovative ideas in reaching broader international audiences.
Beijing has long been one of the world’s most dynamic centers for culture, innovation, and international engagement. We believe it has a unique role to play in fostering global dialogue and cooperation. Through platforms such as Sumac and events like today’s forum, we hope to create more opportunities for meaningful connections, new partnerships, and shared growth.
Thank you once again for joining us today. I wish the forum every success and look forward to the insightful discussions ahead.
Thank you.
