Jiang welcomed the international advisors headed by former French Prime Minister Raymond Barre and praised their efforts in supporting China's economic development and the development of the CDB.

Jiang briefed the guests on China's economic climate, saying its opening up and reform drive had entered a new stage in which the country would participate more widely in international economic cooperation and competition. He hoped the advisors would continue to watch China's economic development and proffer valuable advice on its financial reforms.

Barre and the other guests expressed admiration for the great changes in China. They said the country's sustained and rapid economic growth was of importance to the healthy development of the global economy.

(People's Daily October 16, 2002 )