Apple CEO kicks off China trip in Chengdu, underlying China's importance

Apple CEO Tim Cook underlined the importance of China to the United States tech company on Wednesday, when he attended an event in Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan province, celebrating Apple's 50th anniversary.

"We select China because China is so important for us," Cook said.

"We have been in China for over 30 years of our 50 years."

"Chengdu is one of the most vibrant cities in the world — full of innovation, full of entrepreneurship, and full of just chill."

Cook is scheduled to attend the China Development Forum in Beijing this weekend, and he will also meet Chinese software developers, partners and senior government officials.

The trip is an indication of Apple's emphasis on China, which is not only a crucial market for the company, but also a key part of its supply chains and a major source of innovation.