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Premier Wen talks online with public
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-02-28 10:59

Regression in Sino-US relations not in line with historical tide

Premier Wen said that any regression in the relations between China and the United States was "not in line with the historical tide".

He said the 30 years of Sino-US relations have proved that both will benefit from cooperation and both will be hurt by bitter fights.

He said after repeated trials and errors, China and the United States finally found the only correct road, which is mutual respect, equality and constructive cooperation, in promoting bilateral relations.

Premier shows concern over jobless migrant workers

Chatting with netizens at the central government website (www.gov.cn), Premier Wen showed his concern over the country's jobless migrant workers and other unemployed people and encouraged them to start self-employment.

Wen said he had been deeply concerned over the employment issue, including those of migrant workers, college graduates and jobless urban families.

"Employment is not only related to one's livelihood but also one's dignity," Wen said.

Earlier official figures show about 15.3 percent of the 130 million migrant workers had returned jobless from cities to the countryside against the backdrop of the global economic downturn.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao prepares to chat with Internet surfers on two state news portals in Beijing, China, Feb. 28, 2009. [Xinhua]

Netizen questions

While many welcomed Premier Wen's upcoming chat with the public, a great deal of others expressed complaint, warnings and suggestions for government work on the two portals.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao prepares to chat with Internet surfers on two state news portals in Beijing, China, Feb. 28, 2009.  [Xinhua]

One netizen wrote about the tuition fee of roughly 300 yuan (US$44) in local primary schools, which was against the state policy of free nine-year compulsory education. He also mentioned high electricity rates in rural areas, leaving people unable to afford daily use of home appliances even after purchasing them.

One person criticized soaring real estate prices in recent years and asked why macro economic policies did not work for curbing unreasonable price hikes.

One asked for more favorable policies for private business owners and an effective way to protect their interests.

Another asked Wen whether the government will consider introducing more pro-active policies for attracting overseas talent against the backdrop of economic sluggishness in many developed economies.

The websites advise that each question should be no more than 100 Chinese characters to ensure smooth on-line flow.

Netizens also proffered tens of thousands of questions as well as advice for Wen on several Chinese news portals, which organized special bulletins ahead of the legislature and the top advisory body's annual sessions.

A university graduate complained it is too hard to find a job.

Netizen "Dingxinwan" wondered what the government will do to rein in soaring housing prices.

Netizen "Huamei" complained that officials in his/her hometown were too corrupt.

Still, a netizen from Zhejiang Province wanted the government to build a paved road in his/her village.