"After China's entry into the WTO, the country will see greater development in its opening to the outside world and further improvement in its overall investment environment", said Minister of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation (MOFTEC) Shi Guangsheng at the ninth joint session of Chinese and Japanese investment promotion institutions on November 24.

Shi said that a bilateral agreement on China's accession to the WTO had been signed by China and the United States under the direct push given by the top leaders of the two countries. In the near future, China will speed up the conduction of bilateral negotiations with the EU and with other WTO member states. Full of confidence, Shi said "the day for China's entry into the WTO will not be far off". While enjoying the rights for developing countries, China will earnestly undertake the relevant obligations, scrupulously abide by the principles of the WTO, and fulfill its promises to foreign countries.

Shi said that since the beginning of this year, the Chinese government has stepped up its financial support for the foreign-invested enterprises and support for their technological innovation and development. It has simplified the examination and approval procedures for the establishment of foreign-funded projects and enterprises, quickened the process of examination and approval, and resolutely stopped indiscriminate charges, inspections and apportions in regard to foreign-funded firms. Some related departments are stepping up their check-up on policies and stipulations concerning foreign-invested enterprises, they will adjust relevant documents which are unhelpful to the attraction of foreign investment and perfect the legal system for foreign investment.