A view of the Forbidden City and the CBD area in Beijing. Photo: VCG

　　Chinese Minister of Commerce Wang Wentao met with Apple CEO Tim Cook in Beijing on Friday, according to a video clip released on the official WeChat account of China"s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM).

　　In the meeting, Wang said he recalled that each previous discussion with Cook had been highly pragmatic, with both sides engaging in candid exchanges that proved mutually enlightening. Wang has mentioned that he enjoys his conversations with Cook.

　　Cook emphasized the importance of the Chinese market and local supply chains to Apple. He said Apple focuses not only on supply chains and manufacturing, but also on automating and putting as much artificial intelligence (AI) into the factories as possible.

　　Apple on Friday announced a new donation to the China Development Research Foundation to support youth employment and skills training in less-developed regions, according to the company"s official website.

　　The program will collaborate with vocational institutions, industry leaders, researchers and policymakers to equip students with skills for evolving job markets.

　　Cook"s visit came as several foreign firms have recently announced plans to expand their presence in China, as senior executives traveled to the country and held meetings with Chinese officials and business leaders, underscoring continued confidence in the market. A Chinese expert said these moves reflect the enduring appeal of China"s stable business environment, vast market potential and increasingly complete industrial ecosystem, even amid global economic uncertainties.