Some 30 Pingtan merchants gathered to discuss the development of their homeland with?local leaders after attending the fifth World Fujian Merchants Assembly which fell on June 18, local media reported.

Xu Weize, director of Pingtan's administrative committee,spoke about Pingtan's current development and urged business people to talk frankly and shed light on the drawbacks existing in Pingtan.

The discussion was heated at times but achieved constructive results as many entrepreneurs voiced their hopes and suggestions.

Xu also noted that the opening up and development of Pingtan was not only a national strategy of the central government, but also a common wish of all Pingtan citizens. He hoped that the merchants would bring more top projects and fine resources to Pingtan to contribute to the further development of their hometown.

The triennial World Fujian Merchants Assembly started in 2004, aiming to promote the spirit of Fujian merchants and make the culture of Fujian merchants known to the world.