According to Zhu, Shanghai attracted $16.06 billion in foreign investment last year, representing 15.3 percent of the national total, meaning that more than one-seventh of China's foreign investment was contributed by Shanghai.

"We are firmly resolved to further expand opening-up and continuously optimize a world-class business environment in the future," Zhu said. "Therefore, foreign investors are welcome to join Shanghai's modern industrial system, integrate into the industrial, supply, and value chains, and seize market opportunities."

Zhu's speech was made during the Spring Festival blessing event for foreign representatives in Shanghai. More than 70 foreign guests from 23 countries and regions took part in the event, which was jointly held by the Shanghai Municipal Commission of Commerce and the Jing'an district government.