"China will continue to provide convenience for investments from EU firms. We hope the EU takes active measures to expand exports of hi-tech products to China, recognize China's market economy status and create a relaxed policy environment for Chinese firms to invest in EU countries."

Chinese President Hu Jintao, during talks with European Council President Herman Van Rompuy in Beijing on May 16

"Over past decades, China has managed to provide the people with sufficient food, and we must make efforts to provide them with safe food."

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang, speaking at a nine-day seminar on food safety in Beijing on May 15

"China is willing to cooperate with Latin America in diversifying its exports to China and welcomes more exports with high added value from the continent."

Chinese Commerce Minister Chen Deming, in an interview with Xinhua News Agency on May 13 in Buenos Aires

"China's trade surplus is likely to decrease to $120 billion or even $100 billion by the end of the year, compared with 2010's trade surplus of $180 billion."

Li Daokui, a central bank advisor of China, at the Third International Business Development Forum in Beijing on May 14

"After a watershed general election, we have decided to leave the Cabinet and have a completely younger team of ministers to connect to and engage with this young generation in shaping the future of our Singapore."

Singapore's Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew, in a joint statement on May 15