HAIKOU — Vice-Premier Han Zheng has praised solid efforts in fully implementing the master plan for the Hainan free trade port in a bid to secure a solid start in its construction.

Han, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during his research tour in South China's Hainan province between May 30 and 31.

Han initially visited a construction site in Haikou Meilan International Airport to check the planning and construction, as well as the preparation work for the operation of the expansion project.

He emphasized efforts to step up the building of transport and other major projects. He also praised actively expanding effective investment developments while urging the local government of Hainan to accelerate the building of a modern and comprehensive transport system to provide a strong foundation for the construction of the free trade port.

While visiting a new harbor under construction, Han stressed the importance of grasping the opportunity of building the so-called New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and nurturing international sea routes in order to build an international container hub.

Efforts should also be made to enhance independent innovation capabilities, reinforce abilities to make key technology breakthroughs and safeguard the security of internet information and economic operation, he said, while visiting a software park.

At a duty-free store in Haikou, Han called for efforts to develop Hainan into an international tourism and consumption center.