BEIJING - Vice-Premier Li Keqiang said Tuesday that China will strengthen intellectual property rights protection and continue to transform its economy, when meeting CEO of Apple Tim Cook in Beijing.

"To be more open to the outside is a condition for China to transform its economic development, expand domestic demands and conduct technological innovation," Li said.

Vice-Premier Li Keqiang (R) meets with CEO of Apple Tim Cook in Beijing on Wednesday. [Photo/Xinhua]

He said that trade and economic cooperation together are an "important cornerstone" for the cooperative partnership featuring mutual respect and reciprocity that China and the United States are endeavoring to establish.

The vice-premier called on multinational companies to expand cooperation with China, actively participate in the development of the western part of China, pay more attention to caring for workers and share development opportunities with the Chinese side.

Cook said Apple will strengthen comprehensive cooperation with the Chinese side and conduct business in a law-abiding and honest manner.

Li highlighted the importance of development of new technologies and industries for a healthy recovery and strong, sustainable and balanced growth of world economy.

He said the Chinese government will make more efforts to strengthen innovation and cultivate strategic emerging industries.