China’s president, Hu Jintao, has pledged an “even more active” opening up of the country’s economy and a renewed commitment to free trade as he sought to respond to concerns over apparent reform fatigue in Beijing and a deteriorating global economy.
Addressing an audience of business leaders and senior trade officials yesterday in a speech to mark the 10th anniversary of China’s accession to the World Trade Organisation, Mr Hu pledged to pursue more balanced foreign trade relations and to create a fair and transparent business environment.
China, he said, would seek to strengthen the rule of law, reduce government interference in economic activities and improve the enforcement of intellectual property rights.