Connecting business to a clean future

What are your business' strategies in terms of adjusting to China's latest economic initiatives like the New Normal and the Belt and Road Initiative?

ABB's next strategy is completely in line with the shift in the Chinese economy from production to consumption, with a strong emphasis on environmental performance, in terms of our focus on efficient and high-quality power, industrial automation, and sustainable transport and infrastructure.

Our diversified portfolio in power and automation is well-suited to serve the changes under the New Normal, such as the evolution of the energy supply, urbanization, energy efficiency and industrial upgrade.

And ABB's smart technologies and solutions fit perfectly with the development of the 10 key areas listed in the "Made in China 2025" plan, such as industrial robots, marine engineering equipment and high-tech ships, advanced rail transportation equipment, energy-saving and new energy vehicles, and electric power equipment.

In line with the Belt and Road Initiative, we are speeding up our expansion into western China, while maintaining our leading position in the east.

What do you think about the Chinese Dream? What are the dreams you have for your company in China?

ABB's vision and dream of power and productivity for a better world is very much coherent with the Chinese dream of a prosperous society. Our leadership in power and automation supports the Chinese society to become more prosperous, by strengthening the country's electricity network and its industrial base.

What are your hobbies? How do you spend your time outside of work when you are in China? How do you spend your weekend?

I have been to China dozens of times since I became ABB Group CEO in 2013. Unfortunately my schedule doesn't allow me any free time when I am in China.

But when I am at home, I love doing sports and playing music. I spend weekends with my family and whenever possible we like to enjoy the beauty of the Swiss Alps.

Name places in China that impressed you most?

I have been travelling to China on a regular basis since the 1990s and it is amazing to have experienced personally how Shanghai and Beijing have developed into hot spot cities of the 21th century. Looking ahead, I would like to explore regions and cities that I don't know yet as well further inland like Yunnan province.