The event began with opening remarks by the newly appointed ambassador to the European Union in Beijing, H.E. Jorge Toledo, who described the importance the EU gives to cyber security issues in the dynamically evolving global landscape of the internet. He also emphasized the EU’s effort on creating a safe and secure environment allowing the users to leverage the tremendous socio-economic benefits offered by digital technologies.

 

His points were followed by the ambassador to the Czech Republic, H.E. Vladimir Tomšík, who talked about the challenges and opportunities that the ever-changing unique environment of the internet presents while he also emphasized EU’s focus on the protection of its citizens privacy in the digital space. Furthermore, he introduced the priorities and planned events of the Czech presidency in the area of digital security and online environment. 

 

The floor was then given to the speakers, who were both present in Beijing and also connected with the audience online from Europe. The discussion first touched on topics like Chinese user behaviour and the different digital environments of China and Europe which are essential to understand for anyone trying to engage Chinese consumers since the local social media are a larger phenomenon in the world’s second-biggest economy than it is in other countries.

 

The discussion then turned to the regulations with Chinese specifics and control that the local government has over the Internet and their narrow focus on viral and so-called socially sensitive topics.

 

The conference was followed by a short reception in the garden of the EU Delegation. There, guests enjoyed Czech wine, as well as Czech beer and delicious food. 

 

Adam Kupka, Economic Counsellor