Chinese premier warns against protectionism

Source: Xinhua | 02-02-2009 07:48

LONDON, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- Visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Sunday warned against protectionism in face of lingering global financial crisis.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) shakes hands with  former British Prime Minister Tony Blair during  their meeting in London Feb. 1, 2009. Wen is on a  three-day official visit to Britain, the last leg  of his week-long European tour. (Xinhua/Ma Jianguo)

Speaking at a meeting with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Wen said as international financial crisis is spreading, his visit to London was to send a message of confidence for Britain and China to join hands in overcoming current difficulties.

He noted that the two sides should further explore the potential for cooperation, and guard against trade protectionism, in particular.

The premier, who arrived in London on Saturday for a three-day official visit, welcomed British businesses to invest in China, while expressing wishes for Britain to increase exports of goods, technology and equipment to China.

On the upcoming G20 summit in April, Wen pledged that China would work together with Britain towards an active achievement.

Blair said the international community highly values China's role and views in dealing with the current financial crisis. Wen's speech at the annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos has sent a message of confidence in strengthening cooperation and overcoming difficulties.