Dennis Pamlin, founder of Sweden-based consultancy 21st Century Frontiers. [Photo provided to China Daily]

China's role in an open economy is special. China's experience in lifting people out of poverty and its important role as a provider of new sustainable technologies, like electric cars, LED lights and solar panels, is unique.

What is needed to ensure that the world gets the solutions that are needed is something that China has great experience in. Hence, China has a key role in any discussions about a sustainable open economy.

That China already has focused on establishing an open and frank atmosphere at the summit is most welcome. It is, however, important to remember that many of the most innovative stake holders who are entrepreneurs in small companies are not participating in the G20.