Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang, who was here on Wednesday to attend the third meeting of the China-Europe Forum, spoke highly of the Sino-European relations and called for concerted efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation in a wide range of fields.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the forum, Zhang said the Chinese side attaches vital importance to its ties with the European Union (EU), adding that the all-around strategic partnership between China and the 27-member bloc was marching towards maturity.

China and Europe share more common ground than divergences, and both sides have more common interests than quarrels, Zhang noted.

The vice premier said the Sino-European relations have huge potential and magnificent prospects for future development.

It is in the interests of both sides to develop the all-around strategic partnership on the basis of equality, Zhang said, adding that it is also beneficial to world peace.

China is willing to join hands with the EU to deepen the substantial cooperation in various fields and open a new chapter for the Sino-European relations, Zhang stressed.

In the speech, Zhang also briefed European political and business leaders on the latest economic and social development in China.

He also extended his thanks for European assistance to the rescue and relief work in the wake of the Wenchuan earthquake in China's Sichuan Province in May.

(Xinhua News Agency September 11, 2008)