On May 2, 2012, Vice Premier Li Keqiang visited an electronic waste disposal plant of Umicore. Belgian Crown Prince Philippe accompanied Li during the tour.

Li asked Umicore Chairman Thomas Leysen and CEO Marc Grynberg detailed questions about the recycling and classified storage of waste metals, ultra-high temperature processing, refining of precious metals, decomposition of chemical by-product raw materials and environmentally friendly disposal. He said that Umicore carries out research and innovation and applies the most advanced technologies of electronic waste harmless treatment in the world to protect the environment and has gained good economic return. It is very significant to Belgium and the world at large.

He pointed out that the disposal of electronic waste in China is critical to China’s endeavor to build a resource-saving and environment-friendly society and improve people's livelihood. Belgium has advanced technology in this area. China and Belgium enjoy broad prospects for cooperation in the field of electronic waste disposal. He hopes that Umicore, based on its years of cooperation with the Chinese side, actively explores the mutually beneficial cooperation with related Chinese enterprises on the disposal of electronic waste, make joint R&D, promote and demonstrate the application of advanced technologies and make contributions to promoting the sustainable economic and social development of both countries.

Philippe said that Belgium and China face the same task and responsibility in the field of sustainable development and collaboration between the two sides would benefit both and the entire world. Belgium will encourage domestic companies to engage in win-win cooperation with related Chinese enterprises.

Umicore has a history of more than 200 years. It specializes in the recycling and use of non-ferrous metals and materials. Its electronic waste disposal plant is the largest enterprise of waste metal and precious metal extraction in the world.