Apple pledges investment and cooperation in China after Beijing talks

Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook pledged on Wednesday, Oct. 15, to expand the technology giant's investment and cooperation in China during talks in Beijing with Li Lecheng, China's minister of Industry and Information Technology, according to a summary issued by the ministry. The officials did not disclose any financial figures, and Apple did not immediately provide comment on the meeting.

Cook told Minister Li that Apple would continue increasing its presence in the Chinese market and deepen collaboration with local partners, the ministry said. Li welcomed the remarks and reiterated that Chinese authorities would maintain policies aimed at supporting cooperation with major foreign technology firms, the ministry summary added. During his visit, Cook also stopped at an Apple retail store, met with game developers and artists, and took part in events promoting the iPhone Air model and an environmental initiative with Tsinghua University.

The visit came as Apple balances long-established manufacturing and sales operations in China with a broader strategy to diversify its supply chain. The company still assembles the majority of its iPhones in China through suppliers including...