Premier Zhu Rongji urged Canadian businessmen Tuesday to make long-term plans and " actively participate" in the development of China's west.

Zhu said during a meeting with members of the board of the Canada-China Business Council that Canadian business people should seize the "excellent opportunities" brought about by the China's development of its western region.

Zhu briefed the Canadian guests on China's economic situation and its strategy of developing its west, and thanked the Canadian business circle for their role in helping boost Sino-Canadian trade and economic ties.

（People’s Daily 02/14/2001）