Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Italian Prime Minister Silvio
Berlusconi Friday pledged to expand the cooperation in diversified
fields between China and Italy.
During the talks the two leaders held Friday morning, Wen made
three proposals for this purpose.
He said both sides should keep the frequent exchange of
high-level visits and strengthen bilateral dialogue and
consultation as well as the coordination within the United Nations
and other international organizations.
Both sides should further tap the potential to expand trade and
economic cooperation, promote cooperation between their small and
medium-sized enterprises, and strive to explore new fields, he
said.
Wen said the two countries should strengthen the exchange and
cooperation in the judicial field, culture and education, science
and technology, environmental protection and tourism.
Berlusconi said Italy values the positive role China plays in
the international arena, and is willing to deepen friendship and
expand cooperation.
He said Europe-China ties have entered a new stage and there are
brilliant prospects for cooperation between Italy and China.
According to Wen, Italy has become China's fourth trading
partner among European Union nations, and China's trade with Italy
is expected to surpass 10 billion US dollars this year.
After their talks, the two leaders attended a ceremony
witnessing the signing of a memorandum between the two governments
on the establishment of cultural centers in both countries.
Prior to the talks, Wen hosted a grand ceremony in honor of
Berlusconi, who is in China for an official visit.
Berlusconi attended the sixth China-EU leaders' meeting which
was held Thursday in Beijing.
(Xinhua News Agency October 31, 2003)