Premier
Zhu
Rongji yesterday urged government officials to understand the
rules of the World Trade Organization (WTO) to ensure sound
economic development and social stability in the country.
The impact of the WTO entry should not be exaggerated - or
underestimated, said Zhu at a seminar attended by over 90
ministerial-level officials from across the country.
Zhu made the remarks just days before China becomes a member of the
WTO.
Joining the WTO was a major decision taken by the central
government, that is consistent with the country's fundamental and
long-term interests, as membership will give a firm push to China's
building of a socialist market economy and economic modernization,
Zhu said.
The transitional period for China after it enters the WTO is only
three to five years, and the country should spare no efforts to
become well-prepared and readjusted during that period, Zhu
said.
"Whether the gains are larger than the losses will depend on our
work," said Zhu, adding that China should honor its commitment as
well as make full use of the rights it enjoys as a member of the
WTO.
The most-favored nation treatment and the national treatment China
will gain from other WTO members will create a perfect environment
to increase the country's export volume, he said.
Zhu encouraged domestic enterprises to upgrade their management in
order to raise their competitiveness.
The drafting of amendments and the abolishment of obsolete laws,
rules and regulations should be speeded up, Zhu urged. These
changes should be in line with China's WTO commitment and also take
into consideration the protection of the country's economic
development, said the premier.
In
addition, efforts should be made to enhance development and
innovation in science and technology, push forward the upgrading of
industrial technologies and the promotion of industrial
restructuring.
China's WTO accession calls for new requirements for the country's
administrative system. Government departments at all levels should
push these reforms and conduct administrative operations according
to law, he said.
China should be skilled in the use of WTO rules to protect its
industrial safety and economic security.
And study and training about the WTO should be conducted in order
to generate high-quality talents, he added.
(China Daily December
10, 2001)