China calls for more economic cooperation
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2006-01-26 09:07

DAVOS, Switzerland - Chinese Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan called here on Wednesday for more economic cooperation between China and the rest of the world to achieve mutual benefit.

"China cannot achieve development in isolation of the rest of the world, and the world needs China for development," said Zeng in a special address to the opening session of the World Economic Forum annual meeting.

The official said China had benefited a lot from the useful assistance of foreign countries since its reform and opening-up in the late 1970s.

Zeng Peiyan, Vice President of the People's Republic of China speaks during the "message 2" session at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, January 25, 2006.[Reuters]

"At the same time, China also made contributions to the development of the world," he added, noting that China had done a lot to help other developing countries and provide relief to countries that suffered from natural disasters.

"It is our hope that foreign entrepreneurs and people from various sectors will seize the opportunity, expand trade with and investment in China, and continue to support and participate in the economic development of our country," he said.

Zeng, who arrived here on Wednesday, also announced in the address that the World Economic Forum will establish a representative office in Beijing.

"To my knowledge, it is the first office of this kind ever opened by the Forum outside Switzerland," he said, adding that this would help strengthen cooperation between China and the Forum and promote interaction and common development between Chinese and foreign businesses.

Created in 1971 and based in Geneva, Switzerland, the World Economic Forum describes itself as a global community of business,political, intellectual and other leaders of society committed to improving the state of the world.

With the theme of "Creative Imperative", this year's annual meeting attracted some 2,340 participants, including government leaders and CEOs of big companies.

It will focus on such issues as world economic situation and employment.

Zeng is expected to meet Klaus Schwab, founder and executive chairman of the World Economic Forum, on Thursday, discussing cooperation between the organization and China.