The sudden outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) has made Chinese people become more aware of the importance of coordinated economic and social development, and Beijing will have a more beautiful future.
Wang Qishan, acting mayor of Beijing, made the remarks Monday during his meeting with British Ambassador to China Christopher Hum.
Christopher Hum said Beijing's pledges and resoluteness in the fight against SARS are admirable, expressing Britain's hope to enhance cooperation with Beijing.
Earlier Monday, Wang also met with Stuart Gulliver, co-head of Corporate, Investment Banking and Markets of the Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, Limited. Wang said it is urgent to improve Beijing's urban public sanitation systems.
Beijing's new development in the wake of SARS will bring more business opportunities to foreign capital, Wang said.
(Xinhua News Agency June 24, 2003)
