BEIJING, Dec. 26 -- China's economy is displaying positive signs of recovery and China remains attractive to foreign investment with the expanding market access, some global business leaders have said.

"China's economic performance in 2023 demonstrated an upward recovery, with market demand gradually recovering and production and supply continuing to increase," Jean-Christophe Pointeau, Pfizer China President, told Xinhuanet in a written interview.

China's gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 5.2 percent year on year in the first three quarters, marking the strongest performance among the world's major economies.

Meanwhile, forecasts from international financial institutions predict that China's 2024 growth rate will exceed global rates: the World Bank estimates 4.5 percent, and the International Monetary Fund forecasts 4.6 percent.

"We are full of confidence in the long-term positive development of China's economy," Pointeau said, adding that he believes China will also inject strong impetus into promoting global economic recovery and stability.

Pointeau also casts his vote of confidence in the Chinese market, saying that as a witness of rapid development of China's market economy, Pfizer believes "Chinese market has become a great opportunity for the world."

He noted that "China's efforts and achievements in steadily promoting economic development while continuing to optimize the business environment have strengthened the confidence of foreign companies in building up trade, investment and cooperation with China."

Pfizer' s confidence in China's economy and market is echoed by other foreign firms.

"China has become one of the top three key growth markets for Unilever globally," Jasmine Dang, Head of Communication & Corporate Affairs, Unilever North Asia said in a recent written interview with Xinhuanet.

Eyeing China's vast, remarkable and dynamic market, "Unilever is confident in China's ongoing economic revival and positive trends," she said, adding that China's economic resurgence is opening new opportunities for Unilever.

Unilever has been investing in China for a century, actively participating in and witnessing the nation's reform and opening-up, she added.

Rio Tinto also set its sight on China and chose to put down roots in the country.

"China's opening up over the past 45 years has provided multinationals like Rio Tinto with abundant opportunities," Alf Barrios, Rio Tinto Chief Commercial Officer, told Xinhuanet.

China's efforts to optimize its business environment and attract foreign investment are important signals of China's commitment to promoting trade and openness to the continued growth of foreign businesses operating in China, he noted.

Over 40,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established in the first 10 months of 2023, a 32.1 percent increase year-on-year, according to China's Ministry of Commerce.

The People's Bank of China said China will continue to improve its business environment and better facilitate foreign financial institutions that expand their businesses in the country.

We look forward to collaborating with Chinese partners to jointly develop decarbonization solutions and boost the industry's low-carbon transformation through innovation, Barrios added.