Xi unveils foreign policy direction

Xi Jinping (C back), general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, communicates with foreign experts working in China during a meeting in Beijing, capital of China, Dec 5, 2012. It is Xi's first meeting with foreign guests since he was elected general secretary of the CPC Central Committee. [Bao Xinguo / Asianewsphoto]

Pedro Nueno Iniesta, founder of the China Europe International Business School briefed Xi on measures to increase support for small and-medium-sized enterprises.

Atanas Blago Stoyano, a Bulgarian agricultural specialist, proposed a number of measures to boost and vary orchard yields.

Xi, who took notes, told the ministers of finance and human resources at the meeting that the proposals deserved serious consideration.

Speaking of the achievement of China's reform and opening-up, your efforts cannot go unmentioned, Xi told his guests.

Calling foreign experts "bridges and bonds" in China's tie with the world, Xi took the opportunity to speak on China's foreign diplomacy blueprint, saying that Beijing will continue its basic policy of opening-up.

He also said that no country can go it alone or outshine others given the complex situation of the world economy and global issues.

Xi also stressed that countries should take legitimate concerns of other countries into account when they pursue their own interests, as well as promote the development of all countries when they pursue their own development.

Alistair Michie, secretary-general of the UK-based 48 Group Club, said it was impressive to see that Xi had laid out a clear summary of his foreign policy philosophy at the meeting.