MILAN, Italy, May 19 (Xinhua) -- China's top legislator Wu Bangguo said here on Tuesday that overseas Chinese companies should explore new ways to help China restructure its economy and upgrade its industries.

    Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), made the remarks as he met here with Chinese entrepreneurs who invest and do business in Italy and Europe.

    Wu encourages the Chinese companies to expand their overseas market and explore new areas and channels of cooperation in other countries, so as to make new contributions to China's cooperation with Italy and Europe.

    Against the background of the international financial crisis, Chinese companies should enhance their research and development capabilities and establish overseas marketing networks through cooperation with foreign companies, Wu suggested.

    He hopes that Chinese companies could seize the opportunity of the reshuffle of global industry to upgrade management and technology. He said Chinese companies should attach importance to fostering management talents with international experience.

    More than 150 Chinese companies are now operating in Italy.

    Wu is on an official goodwill visit to Italy. 

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