A1 China is now the world's second-largest economy. This prosperity is a result of the century-long endeavor of hard work and innovation that has led the nation to seize this momentum and advance ever further.

As an innovation-driven paints and coatings company, AkzoNobel pioneers a world of possibilities to bring surfaces to life. Having been in China for more than half of a century, we are honored to witness and participate in building China's momentum and will continue to partner with China, the single largest market for us, on this ever-evolving journey.

A2 Innovation has become a core driver of China's quest toward high-quality development, which deeply resonates with us as an innovation-driven paints and coatings company. We aim to use innovation to drive paints and coatings beyond expectations, imagination and generations.

With the success of China's reform and opening-up policy as well as its thriving innovation ecosystem, we believe that China will become a global powerhouse for science, technology and innovation. We will continue to build an even stronger connection with China's innovation ecosystem to discover revolutionary and sustainable solutions for our customers in China and globally.

A3 The pivot of innovation and sustainability using advanced technologies is one of the most attractive parts of the Chinese economy. In AkzoNobel's view, the grand vision described in China's 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) is a solid foundation for the fulfilling of China's second centenary-related goal.

Sustainability is at the core of AkzoNobel, and our innovation strategy has a strong focus on sustainability. We are committed to continuous investment in sustainable solutions through collaborative innovation. The launch of the Paint the Future startup challenge in China shows our determination to partner with China's innovation ecosystem to foster a brighter future for the industry.

A4 One of the most significant trends brought by China's new development journey is the impressive dual-circulation development pattern that enables mutual and plentiful boosts to domestic and foreign markets through bolstering foreign trade and investment and accelerating innovation.

Under this new pattern, we believe a promising window of investment opportunities will also emerge. AkzoNobel is committed to continuous investment in China, and to forging new relationships within China's innovation ecosystem, creating greater value for our customers and further pushing the boundaries of paints and coatings in China and globally.

A5 It is well-known that by introducing new laws, shortening the negative list and easing market entry, China is effectively showing commitment to its opening-up and encouraging more international economic cooperation that will contribute to its high-quality development.

Therefore, AkzoNobel sees maintaining a sustainable business environment as one of the top priorities. For decades, AkzoNobel has delivered innovation that addresses the most pressing needs of our customers, consumers and across industries, in line with government agendas, to create better lives. We expect to see sustained local prosperity and thriving interest in foreign investment.