Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic, we’ve received video messages from CDF delegates who expressed their support to China.

Today’s video is from Jean-Sebastien Jacques，CEO of Rio Tinto.

He said that “I have no doubt that under the leadership of the Chinese government, China as a determined, resilient nation, will soon win this battle. China Development Forum is a great platform to have honest conversations and exchange insights into the world of tomorrow. In a time of uncertainty, a platform like this is very essential to enable joint efforts in addressing our common challenges. I really look forward to my next trip to China, and I will definitely see you at 2020 CDF.”

As a company with long-standing partnership with China, Rio Tinto has sent letters of support to our Chinese partners immediately, and donated US$1 million to the China Red Cross Foundation to support China’s fight with the novel coronavirus outbreak. The funds will be used to purchase negative pressure ambulances and medical supplies such as masks and protective coveralls. In addition, Rio Tinto is working with Chinese partners to identify other practical ways to offer support, leveraging the company’s global partnership networks.

The following is the full speech.

It is concerning to see events unfolding in China in relation to the coronavirus outbreak. Our thoughts are with the people and families impacted. Please stay strong and we stand together with you.

As a company with long-standing partnership with China, we are committed to helping those who need help right now.

We have donated US$1 million to the Chinese Red Cross Foundation, to support hospital upgrades and the purchase of medical supplies. We are also working with all Chinese partners to identify other practical ways that we may be able to help.

I have no doubt that under the leadership of the Chinese government, China as a determined, resilient nation, will soon win this battle.

China Development Forum is a great platform to have honest conversations and exchange insights into the world of tomorrow. In a time of uncertainty, a platform like this is very essential to enable joint efforts in addressing our common challenges. 

I really look forward to my next trip to China, and I will definitely see you at 2020 CDF.

China is absolutely essential for Rio Tinto. China is our largest market. But more importantly, if you look at the next 20 years, China will account for 90% plus of our growth options. So, whatever metrics you look at, China will be absolutely essential as a partner, as a customer for Rio Tinto in the shot, medium and long term.

Binyan Ren,  Managing Director China

We appreciate China's tremendous effort in the battle against the pandemic.

Oyu Tolgoi, Mongolia

China will win! Wuhan will win! Go Go China!

Washington DC, US

Stay safe, stay strong! Go China team!

Brisbane, Australia

Stay strong China!

Tokyo, Japan

Stay strong China! Go China!

Singapore

Stay strong! Singapore supports you!

West Angelas, Australia

Stay strong China! Stay strong!

Montreal, Canada

Stay strong China! Stay strong Wuhan!