'China to further welcome foreign investment'
The nation's top legislator Zhao Leji on Thursday promised to further open China's door to foreign investments by making it easier for foreigners to work, study and travel in the country. "China's door to the world will never close, but will only open wider," Zhao told participants at the opening plenary of the annual Boao forum. Making his keynote speech, the Chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee also said the nation will align with international economic and trade rules and foster a pro-business environment. "We will further shorten the negative list for foreign investment, remove all restrictions on foreign investment access in the manufacturing sector, deliver national treatment for foreign businesses and make it easier for foreign nationals to work, study and travel in China." He also said China's green and low-carbon development will drive economic growth and nurture a US$1.4 trillion market for investment and consumption each year. Separately, Zhao said China's import and export of goods is expected to exceed US$32 trillion in the next five years, and that Beijing is willing to collaborate with other countries on tech innovation. With the theme "Asia and the World: Common Challenges, Shared Responsibilities", the four-day Boao event features four sections covering the world economy, technology and innovation, social development, and international cooperation. (Additional reporting by Reuters and Xinhua)