Some 1,000 representatives from the business, academic and media arenas are to attend the upcoming Bo'ao Forum of Asia in China's southernmost province of Hainan. 
 
Forum Secretary-General, Long Yongtu, says eight national and regional leaders, including Chinese premier Wen Jiabao, will give speeches at the meeting.

Participants are expected to discuss issues ranging from Asian economic development and regional cooperation to the world financial situation and bio-technology.

The Forum will take place in early November.

(CRI September 22, 2003)