Apple CEO says openness is a key to a country's success

Apple CEO Tim Cook said that only countries that embrace openness, trade, and diversity can achieve success at the China Development Forum in Beijing on Saturday. The head of the world's most profitable company made the comment when asked what suggestions he would give to the U.S. President Donald Trump regarding trade relations with China.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Inc., speaks at the China Development Forum in Beijing on March 24, 2018. [Photo: China Plus]

"I'm cognizant that in both the U.S. and China, there have been cases where everyone hasn't benefited, where the benefit hasn't been balanced," Cook said. "My belief is that businesses should be engaged with government in countries where they are doing business, whether they agree or disagree". He said that he hoped "calm heads" would prevail.

Trade tension between China and the United States flared this week when President Trump unveiled plans to slap tariffs on up to USD $60 billion on imports from China.

China's Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its position on Friday, urging the United States to "pause on the brink of a precipice", and make prudent decisions so as not to put bilateral trade relations in jeopardy.

Vice Premier Liu He had a telephone call with U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin on Saturday morning. He urged that concerted efforts be made to maintain the stability of China-U.S. trade ties.

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple Inc., receives interview at the China Development Forum in Beijing on March 24, 2018. [Photo: China Plus]