Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said on Thursday that China’s development is being propelled by reform and opening up, noting that the country is ready to work with other countries in the COVID-19 response and economic recovery.

Li made the remarks at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing ahead of the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) during a meeting with foreign diplomats newly sent to China from 28 countries.

Li welcomed the diplomats and asked them to convey his sincere greetings and best wishes to the leaders and people of their respective nations.

He said China is ready to work with countries around the world to cement mutual political trust and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation for win-win results.

He called on them to contribute to the development of relations between China and their countries, adding that the Chinese government would provide the necessary support and convenience to the envoys to carry out their duties in China.

Regarding the Chinese economy, Li said the Chinese economy has continued to recover steadily since the start of this year.

The prime minister said that China is entering a new phase of development and following a new development philosophy and formulating a new paradigm to advance high-quality development.

China would maintain the continuity and consistency of macroeconomic policies while improving efficiency and make pre-adjustments, adjustments and inter-cycle adjustments to stabilize rational market expectations, Li said.

He said China will maintain stable industrial and supply chains, secure electricity supply and livelihoods, and ensure that the economy operates within a reasonable range.

China will continue to reform, promote high-level openness, promote a market-oriented and law-based international business environment, and promote fair competition, Li said. He added that China invites foreign companies. to invest in the country.

The diplomats expressed their congratulations on the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the PRC and conveyed their leaders’ greetings to the Chinese leadership and people.

They praised China’s development achievements and said China has played a vital role in safeguarding international and regional peace and stability and promoting development.

They said they believe China’s advancement will bring more opportunities globally, and are ready to play a positive role in promoting friendly relations between China and their countries.

At Li’s invitation, the diplomats then attended a reception to celebrate the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the PRC.