As the largest developing nation in the world, China is ready for the challenges of globalization by reforming and developing its economy, Minister of Labor and Social Security Zhang Zuoji said.
He was speaking at the World Commission on the Social Dimension of Globalization (WCSDG) National Dialogue in China, which was held in Beijing Tuesday.
In 2001, China's Gross Domestic Product was 7.4 times that of 1980. An employment and social security system which adapts to China's situation has been established, and the livelihoods of Chinese people have been improved dramatically, Zhang said.
Economic globalization brings about opportunities as well as risks to different countries. Coordination and cooperation should be stressed among countries facing global or regional economic difficulties, the Chinese minister said.
Developing countries should set sustainable social and economic development goals while developed countries should shoulder more responsibilities in eliminating poverty and increasing employment, Zhang said.
As one of two chairpersons in the WCSDG, Finnish President Tarja Halonen attended the dialogue during her state visit to China.
Halonen said the influence of globalization was wide and deep, which can benefit different nations. The development of economy, information industry and science and technology will hasten the course of globalization. Developing nations should enhance their capabilities in order to seek favorable positions in globalization.
Founded in 2001, WCSDG is a temporary institution in the International Labor Organization. WCSDG aims to evaluate globalization's impact on employment, income and social protection, and make suggestions within two years.
(Xinhua News Agency November 27, 2002)
