BOAO, Hainan — China will deepen its opening-up and further ease access for foreign investment, Chinese Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli said Friday while meeting with entrepreneurs attending the Boao Forum for Asia.

The country will vigorously create a fair environment for the investors, he said, adding that foreign and domestic businesses will be treated equally.

China will also advance the development of free trade zones and remains one of the top destinations of foreign investment, the vice-premier said.

He said foreign investors are encouraged to participate in major regional strategies and invest in manufacturing, environmental management and under-developed areas.

He expressed the hope that investors could align their plans with China's supply-side reform, strengthen research and development partnerships, and introduce more advanced technology, talent and managerial expertise to the country.

Foreign investors should comply with Chinese laws and regulations, fulfill their social responsibilities and send out positive signals of China's economy, Zhang said.

The four-day Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference, under the theme of "Globalization and Free Trade: The Asian Perspectives," runs until March 26 in Boao in China's southernmost province of Hainan.