2022.08.17 SOURCE:CHINA DAILY

Premier Li Keqiang has reiterated China's pledge to adhering to the nation's opening-up policy, saying that the nation will remain committed to opening wider to the world despite all the changes in the international landscape.

Speaking during a fact-finding trip to Shenzhen, Guangdong province, on Tuesday and Wednesday, Li said the city and the province have been standing at the forefront of China's reform and opening-up, and the two should continue leading the nation on this front and playing a major role in the nation's economic growth.

The premier stressed the need to consolidate the foundation for economic recovery, give greater priority to stabilizing growth, ensure the stability of the job market and public well-being and maintain major economic indicators within a proper range.

The remarks came as major indicators released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed that the recovery in consumer spending and factory activity slowed in July.

Li presided over a symposium in Shenzhen with governors from six provinces on Tuesday, urging them to further tap into the potential of government policies, protect market players and stabilize growth.

During the trip, Li visited an innovation park, where he spoke with leaders of startups. He highlighted the need to support the growth of venture capital funds and extend more support to startups in their key stages of development.

He encouraged the startup leaders to dare to be the first and pilot with a pioneering spirit, saying that more incubation platforms must be developed to help more people live their dreams for starting new businesses and innovation.

During a visit to Yantian Port, the premier highlighted the key role of the port in South China as a key hub for trade with developed nations. He called for efforts to ensure the smooth operations of the port to stabilize industry and supply chains and develop it into a high-level port for international container transport.

At BYD, China's largest new-energy-vehicle maker, Li encouraged the company to build up its capacity by further carrying forward a scientific spirit and quality workmanship.

The government will consider continuing to offer favorable tax policies to the new energy vehicle sector to support more consumer spending on major items, he said.

Li reiterated the nation's unwavering support to the public and private sector, saying that the government will continue to offer a level playing field in policies for State-owned enterprises, private businesses, foreign enterprises and joint ventures.