"This is very good collaboration in this field, and we hope to strengthen our part-nership. The Chinese government is always willing to provide any assistance it can for the welfare the of Fijian people."

HUANG YONG, Chinese ambassador to Fiji, speaking on Sept 9 as China donated 600 sewing machines to help the South Pacific island country create opportunities to generate income and improve women's lives.

"China's door has opened, and it will never be closed again. I do hope that you will not worry for the future of China's opening-up. But, of course, investment in China should follow the laws and business ethics."

China's premier Li Keqiang in a question and answer session with foreign business leaders in Tianjin on Sept 9. He dismissed speculation that recent anti-monopoly investigations have targeted foreign companies.

"We believe one thing: Today is difficult, tomorrow is more difficult, but the day after tomorrow is beautiful So we have to work very hard in order to survive the long journey."

Jack Ma, chairman of Alibaba Group Holding Ltd, speaking during a company presentation. It plans a US initial public offering that may also create a global record. Alibaba is seeking a valuation of up to $162.7 billion.

(China Daily Africa Weekly 09/12/2014 page3)