Wu Xinming, Party secretary of Nantong, meets with Marc Horn, executive vice-president of Merck and president of Merck China, in Nantong on July 11. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Wu Xinming, Party secretary of Nantong in Jiangsu province, met with Marc Horn, executive vice-president of Merck and president of Merck China, in Nantong on July 11.

After a brief overview of Nantong's economic and social growth, Wu mentioned that the city is now intensifying its high-level opening-up initiatives. The goal is to develop a robust manufacturing sector rooted in innovation, backed by key projects, and fueled by cluster development.

Wu highlighted that Merck Group has been a loyal partner of Nantong for over 10 years, investing in and executing numerous high-quality projects. He expressed optimism that Merck will continue to utilize its expertise in pharmaceuticals, health, and life sciences to turn more technological innovations into industrial projects in Nantong, further expanding and consolidating its presence in the city.

He promised that the city will persist in developing a high-quality business environment that is market-oriented, based on the rule of law, and internationalized for both domestic and international businesses.

Horn thanked Nantong authorities for their care and support for Merck Group, and congratulated Nantong on its recent achievements in economic and social development.

He said that Nantong has long been a key area for Merck's investments in China, characterized by strong collaboration and significant potential between both sides. Merck plans to boost its research and development efforts, grow its market presence, and engage more actively in building and supporting industrial, supply, and innovation chains in Nantong to contribute to the city's high-quality development.