RIYADH – Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday called on China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries to strengthen alignment of their development strategies and speed up the free trade agreement negotiations process.

In his meeting with Secretary General of the GCC Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi here, he said China and GCC countries are natural partners of cooperation with strong economic complementarities.

He also said China supports the efforts of regional countries to resolve their differences through dialogue and consultation and to achieve lasting good-neighborliness.

READ MORE: China eyes further alignment of development strategies with S. Arabia

Meanwhile, while meeting with representatives of the Saudi business community, the premier said the Chinese government is committed to building a top-tier business environment that is market-driven, law-based and internationally oriented, and will further relax market access.

China will provide robust support and services for foreign enterprises, helping them establish a stronger presence in the country and achieve success in China, he said.

ALSO READ: China, GCC countries to bolster biz relations

He urged Saudi companies to deepen their involvement in the Chinese market, and invest with greater confidence.

Li encouraged Saudi companies to expand and strengthen cooperation with China in traditional sectors such as oil and gas, petrochemicals, infrastructure, and trade while enhancing cooperation in emerging and future industries like the digital and green economies.