Premier Li Urges Harnessing China's Manufacturing Prowess

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang called on Chinese equipment manufacturing companies to bring the world more quality products and constantly meet market demand, during his visit to Brazil on Wednesday.

Li made the remarks as he took a ride on a subway train and a ferry, both Chinese-manufactured, in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro, a metropolis with a population of 6.5 million set to host the 2016 Summer Olympics.

The Brazilian subway company has ordered 604 subway and commuter trains from Chinese manufacturers. Some 90 trains, which the Chinese manufacturers will deliver soon, will be used for subway lines for the Olympics.

The newly designed subway trains, with sleek looks, passenger comfort, and energy efficiency, are specially equipped with powerful air-conditioning systems for the use in Rio de Janeiro, where temperatures can get high.

The ferry, also specially designed for the upcoming Olympic host, was widely praised by locals after its maiden voyage recently. Another six similar boats, with a capacity of 2,000 passengers each, will be delivered no later than next year.

Li asked the Chinese contractors to fulfill the work of building these trains and boats, ensure timely delivery, and continue to develop new models to meet local demand.

He encouraged the train and ship building companies to be pioneers in production capacity cooperation between China and Brazil, and hoped more Chinese manufacturers can get the upper hand in fierce global competition.

Li enjoyed the ride on the train and also talked with the driver, who told the Chinese premier that the Chinese-made trains have mature technology, stable running, and are able to carry more passengers.

Li told Brazilian officials, who accompanied him during the train ride, that China has superior technology and powerful equipment manufacturing capacity in rail transport, and Chinese-made products are cost-effective and adaptable to various markets.

After taking the ferry trip, Li talked with representatives from manufacturing and financial sectors in both China and Brazil. He asked financial institutions to support production capacity cooperation between the two countries.

China is willing to further cooperate with Brazil in infrastructure construction and equipment manufacturing, which would benefit both countries, Li said.

He voiced his hope that the Brazilian government will ensure legitimate rights of Chinese companies, particularly small businesses, and Chinese expatriates in Brazil.

Brazil is the first stop on Li's four-nation Latin America tour, his first to the region since he assumed premiership in 2013. After Brazil, he will also visit Colombia, Peru and Chile.

[kevinrice]

China has high speed rail, England has high speed rail. Germany has high speed rail as well. Why doesnt north america have these is