Yossi Vardi, an Israeli investment guru, paid a visit to Guangzhou on the morning of April 26 at the invitation of and met with Mr. Ren Xuefeng, Secretary of CPC Guangzhou Committee. They exchanged views on enhancing cooperation between Guangzhou and Israel in promoting science and technology innovation. After the meeting, Vardi delivered a speech themed "How to Create a Stimulating Environment for Innovation and Entrepreneurship" in the auditorium of Guangzhou Library. Hosted by Secretary Ren, the event attracted over 600 people from city government departments, companies focusing on science and technology innovation, research institutes and universities. 

In his speech, Vardi introduced the principal means to innovate and to start a business as well as the challenges faced, shared his personal experience of investment and establishment of strategic partnership, and offered suggestions as to creating a stimulating environment for innovation and entrepreneurship in Guangzhou.

To innovate, as Vardi mentioned, one must keep trying and exploring. In the path of innovation, a lot of creation is needed. There is a gap between reality and the application of innovation. To bridge the gap, cultural innovation is indispensable. Vardi stressed the importance of sharing experience of innovation and entrepreneurship. In addition, Vardi commented on the Guangzhou International Award for Urban Innovation, which is held every other year. The setting up of the Guangzhou Award and the appraisal of the projects submitted, he held could help bring more talents into Guangzhou. Actually, there are similar awards around the world, which means a great opportunity to spur innovation. Vardi believed that entrepreneurs should pay more attention to such awards.

Besides, Vardi pointed out that a supportive environment is necessary for innovation, including innovation in the high-tech sector, as many cities are looking for ways to transform into smart cities. The development of smart cities also provides plenty of opportunities for high-tech enterprises.

Yossi Vardi was born in Tel Aviv in 1942. He is Israel's most renowned Internet entrepreneur and investor and one of Israel's first high-tech entrepreneurs. For over 40 years, Vardi has founded and helped to build over 85 high-tech companies in software, energy, Internet, mobile, electro-optics and water technology.