BEIJING -- Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng on Friday encouraged multinationals to expand their investment in China as the country will continue to expand its high-standard opening up.

He, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when he met with the leaders of three multinational companies: Abbott Laboratories from the United States, Prudential from Britain, and SK Group from the Republic of Korea.

He said that China's economy has stable foundations, numerous strengths, remarkable resilience and vast potential, noting that the dominant trend of a long-term, sound Chinese economy and the elements supporting it have not changed. He encouraged the multinationals to expand their investment in China, deepen cooperation with China and share development opportunities.

The company leaders expressed their optimism about China's economic prospects, stating their willingness to strengthen their presence in the Chinese market and expand their cooperation with China.