During their talks at the Great Hall of People, the two heads of government agreed that Chinese-Italian trade cooperation has developed rapidly and cultural exchanges have been vigorous, and the two countries have cooperated well in international organizations including the United Nations.

The two sides exchanged views on Sino-Italian relations and the international and regional issues of common concern.

Both spoke highly of Sino-Italian relations, and held that frequent exchange of visits between senior officials of the two countries and the flourishing contacts in all fields promote cooperation between China and Italy.

Zhu said China has attached importance to Italy's role in the European Union and the world. China appreciates Italy's commitment to the One-China stance on the Taiwan issue, and it advocating for dialogue, instead of confrontation, on the issue of human rights, as well as its support for China's entry into the World Trade Organization.

He said that Sino-Italian relations have bright future for development, and voiced his hope to promote exchanges and contacts between the two countries at all levels, including the exchange of visits by senior officials.

China supports cooperation between the small and midium-size enterprises of the two countries, and welcomes Italian entrepreneurs to invest in high-tech projects in China, he said.

Zhu added that since China and Italy have splendid ancient civilizations, they can conduct more cultural exchanges.

China is also ready to work with Italy in the legal field, including the crackdown on illegal immigration and organized crime, he noted.

Amato said he has witnessed great changes in China each time he comes here, and he admires the achievements China has made. He said Italy has paid a lot of attention to strengthening friendly cooperation with China.

The Italian government believes that China's entry into the WTO has strategic significance, and it will continue to help China enter WTO at an early date, he added.

Amato said that Italy and China could broaden their cooperation, especially in the areas of environmental protection. He vows to encourage Italian entrepreneurs to invest in China.

(People's Daily 01/16/2001)