Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said on Sunday that he believed his visit would cement Sino-Argentine friendship and upgrade bilateral exchanges and cooperation in all fields.

He made the remarks when meeting with Argentine celebrities in economic, technological, cultural, and educational fields to learn more about Argentina and hear their suggestions about bilateral cooperation.

Wen said amity between people holds the key to sound relations between countries. Promoting mutual understanding and trust between the two peoples could ensure a long-term friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

He said the meeting with local people increased his understanding of Argentina and showed the two countries are good friends and partners that respect each other and treat each other equally.

Wen said both China and Argentina are developing countries with a lot in common: They enjoy political mutual trust, have complementary economies, and share broad mutual interests and consensus on international issues.

He believes the Sino-Argentine relations would have a brighter future.

Wen arrived here Saturday for a visit to Argentina, the third leg of his four-nation South America tour, which has taken him to Brazil and Uruguay. The Chinese leader will also travel to Chile.