Highlights of Chinese premier's speech at WorldSkills Conference 2026

SHANGHAI, Sept. 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Wednesday addressed the opening of the WorldSkills Conference 2026 in Shanghai. The following are some highlights of his remarks:

-- Since the start of reform and opening up, China has made remarkable achievements in its development. "Made in China" products and "Chinese Services" are gaining increasing recognition around the world. These are attributable to the diligence and ingenuity of the Chinese people, in which skills play an irreplaceable role.

-- Investing in skills is investing in the future, and empowering workers is empowering development. We will keep improving the vocational education and training system, so that more workers could get continuous mid-career "recharge" and their skills could light up their road to a better life.

-- As skills were passed down through thousands of years, Chinese workers have not only created splendid material abundance, but left behind a legacy of craftsmanship. Today, such a spirit is enriched in the new era. A broad consensus is forged, that is, work is glorious, skills are precious, and creation is great.

-- China has built the WorldSkills Museum in Shanghai. We are ready to join all parties to build the global skills innovation center, strengthen skills development under the Belt and Road Initiative and through South-South cooperation, and better benefit people of all countries.