An international emergency call center will be established to ensure that Chinese nationals, wherever they may be, will have access to consular protection, according to Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Thursday.

Li, who is in Angola as part of his African visit, said in a seminar attended by over 40 representatives of Chinese companies that are operating in that area said, "Efforts must be made to make sure that our citizens are under consular protection wherever they go."

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As China continues its efforts to open up to the world, an increasing number of Chinese companies as well as citizens are going to other countries, and this situation has brought about concerns and problems related to the protection of their rights, Li said.

Tangible steps have to be taken to give protection to Chinese companies and people abroad, the premier said.  The premier added that this is not just required from the government, but it is likewise the government's responsibility as China continues to open its doors.

Li called on Chinese companies and citizens in foreign lands to pursue acts that are mutually beneficial and to follow local laws, respect local customs and traditions and not to neglect their social responsibilities.

Li arrived at Luanda, Angola's capital on Thursday.  This visit is part of his four-nation African tour. He visited Ethiopia ad Nigeria earlier and will end his tour with a visit to Kenya.

While in Angola, the premier visited a vocational school jointly financed by China and Angola. The school offers free vocational courses on electronic engineering and machinery operation to underprivileged Angolan youths aged 16 to 25.

Li joined Angolan vice-president Manuel Vicente during the opening ceremony of the facility which aims to help poor teenagers and young adults find jobs.