The first China International Import Expo will offer a strong hand in accelerating globalization, said the former prime minister of France on Sunday.

“Such an event (CIIE) shows how business and trade become the major force of globalization. The expo is also increasing the awareness about the biggest threat we have been facing in recent times,” Dominique de Villepin said during a panel at a symposium on international trade and global value chain remodeling.

“We have entered the new era of risk in global rules and economic stability,” he said, and added China will be a strong support to globalization and to enhancing economic stability.

The event was organized by the China Center for International Education Exchange, a government think tank.