The Global Trade in Services Summit at this year's China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) is about to start in Beijing at 8 p.m.

Chinese President Xi Jinping will deliver a speech at the summit.

Foreign leaders, representatives from international organizations and leading companies will also attend the event in person or through the internet.

This event is China's first major exhibition at the national level held offline since the COVID-19 outbreak. However, the event features both online and offline platforms to provide a safer environment for participants, considering the unpredictable nature of the coronavirus.

Over 18,000 international and domestic companies from 148 countries and regions have signed up for the services trade fair, and over 100,000 people have registered to attend the six-day event, which will conclude next Wednesday (September 9).

Stay tuned to CGTN for the livestreaming of tonight's summit. You could also read more on our special coverage of the CIFTIS here.