Chinese Vice Premier Hu Chunhua on December 12 voiced the hope that U.S. enterprises in China will continuously participate in China's reform, opening up and modernization process, so as to make greater contributions to Sino-U.S. cooperation.

Hu made the remarks in a speech delivered at the American Chamber of Commerce (AmCham) China 2019 Annual Appreciation Dinner and 100th Anniversary Celebration in Beijing.

As an active participant and promoter of Sino-U.S. economic and trade cooperation, AmCham has for years played an important role in deepening bilateral exchanges and cooperation between the business communities of the two countries and enhancing mutual understanding between the two governments and peoples, Hu said.

The vice premier stressed that trade and economic relations have always been "an important ballast and propeller for bilateral relations" and "enterprises are the main body of bilateral trade and economic relations."

China will firmly promote high-level opening-up at its own pace, continue to optimize the business environment, effectively protect the legitimate rights and interests of foreign-funded enterprises, and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation with all countries, Hu said.

The vice premier said China's economic development and opening-up will doubtlessly bring more business opportunities for foreign companies including those from the United States.

About 550 guests, including U.S. Ambassador to China Terry Branstad attended the ceremony.