Globalization of world economies is currently "challenged," and executives must work harder to show the trend is beneficial, General Electric Co Chief Executive Officer Jeffrey Immelt said.

"We want people in this country to root for us when we travel," Immelt said after accepting the Asia Society's global leadership award. "We have to show how globalization is a win-win game, and critical for everyone in the world."

Immelt's comments come as U.S. monetary policy has come under international scrutiny for a possible protectionist impact. The Federal Reserve's effort to pump money into the economy with the purchase of Treasury bonds has pressured the dollar, causing alarm in other nations worried about exports.

World leaders last week said they would work to tackle global economic "tensions and vulnerabilities" that have raised fears of currency wars and trade protectionism as they wrapped up a Group of 20 summit in Seoul.

GE is in the midst of streamlining its operations to focus on its industrial heritage and boost its exposure to fast-developing emerging markets including China and India.

"The Indian market has been sluggish (and) until now it's really picking up momentum," he said. "And China is just an execution machine. Both will grow for a long period of time."

Immelt drew attention earlier this year after reportedly accusing China of becoming increasingly hostile to foreign multinationals. (Reuters)