Listening directly to viewpoints from non-communist parties, the All-China Federation of Industry and Commerce (ACFIC) and public figures with no party affiliation is of vital importance in the move to set up a scientific and democratic decision-making mechanism, said Premier Wen Jiabao at a forum held by the State Council Friday.
The practice is important to guarantee a good job in government work and should be institutionalized, said Wen, who is a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party Central Committee.
At the meeting, Wen heard comments and suggestions from participants representing these groups on issues including the current national economy and the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS).
Wen said non-communist parties, the ACFIC and people with no party affiliation have made significant contributions to the China's reforms, opening and modernization drive.
Wen encouraged such organizations and people to provide further support and suggestions for the government.
Senior officials including Vice-Premier Huang Ju, Vice-Premier Wu Yi and State Councilor Hua Jianmin attended the forum.
(Xinhua News Agency April 12, 2003)
