The Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has said that the country is committed to maintaining its position as one of the world's top footballing nations, despite the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Li, who was named China's People's Congress speaker on Monday, told reporters during a meeting with representatives from various sports associations that China will continue to pursue excellence in all aspects of sports, including domestic and international competitions.
"China has always been a strong supporter of sport," Li said, adding that the government has invested heavily in sports facilities and infrastructure across the country, making it easier for people to enjoy sports activities.
"We have also made great progress in improving the quality of sports education and training, which has led to more talented athletes entering the field," Li said.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Li said China has maintained its commitment to hosting the World Cup and other major sporting events.
"The Chinese government has always prioritized the safety of the public and the health and welfare of athletes," Li said. "We have taken many measures to ensure the safety of the players and staff involved."
In addition to supporting domestic sports, Li said China is also actively promoting international cooperation and collaboration in sports.
"We have established partnerships with countries such as Brazil, South Korea, and Japan to promote cross-border exchanges in sports," Li said.
He added that China has also supported the development of sports tourism and hospitality industries, encouraging foreign tourists to come to China to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of the country.
Overall, Li said China is committed to continuing to lead the way in terms of sports development, and he believes that this will only be possible through continued investment and support from the government and the international community.