China consistently supports globalization, free trade: Premier Li

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (central) holds his annual press conference, taking questions from Chinese and foreign journalists, in Beijing, on March 15, 2017. [Photo: Xinhua]

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said Wednesday it is China's consistent position to champion globalization and support free trade.

Li made the remarks at a press conference after the conclusion of the annual session of the national legislature.

All countries have benefited from globalization, though there have been some problems in the process, such as issues with distribution, Li said.

"China is willing to work with other countries to improve the global governance system," he added.

Globalization and world peace, development and cooperation are inseparable, Li said, adding that closing the door and taking beggar-thy-neighbor policies will solve no problems.

China, like many other countries, is a beneficiary of globalization, as the country has been consistently expanding its opening up, the premier said.

"China will open its door wider and wider," Li said.

Last year, China attracted 126 billion U.S. dollars of foreign direct investment, remaining the largest recipient among developing countries, data showed.

The World Bank evaluation showed China's business environment saw continuous improvement during the past three years.

"We are committed to make China a highland of opening up and a popular destination of investment, and share the development opportunities with the world," Li said.

Joint efforts from all countries are needed in supporting free trade, and China takes an open attitude toward regional free trade arrangements that concern it and where conditions are in place.

However, China has no intention of exceeding its duties and stepping into arrangements in which its due role is not in place, Li added. 

"Chinese people understand the country should seize the opportunities of globalization through opening up, no matter what challenges there will be," Li said.