China plans to build its large-scale state-owned enterprises (SOE) stronger and enhance their competitive edge in the international market.

The giant SOEs managed by the central government realized sustainable and fast growth in 2006 and made important contributions to the country''s economic and social development, said Chinese Vice Premier Huang Ju in his message to SOE leaders that convened here Friday.

He urged the central SOEs to speed up joint-stock reform and strengthen technology innovation as well as energy resources saving to become more competitive in the international market.

Chinese Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan said in his speech delivered to the meeting that sales revenue of the central SOEs are expected to eight trillion yuan (1.02 trillion U.S. dollars) in 2006, up 18 percent year on year.

Zeng said the nurturing of large-scale enterprises with international clout is a prerequisite for China to turn from a big economy into a strong economy.

China currently has 159 central SOES. The government says it plans to reduce their numbers to 80 to 100 by 2010 through mergers and takeovers. -Xinhua News