President Hu holds talks with Italian President in Rome
- Source: Xinhua
- [09:46 July 07 2009]
- Comments
Chinese President Hu Jintao (L) shakes hands with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano prior to their talks in Rome, capital of Italy, July 6, 2009.
Chinese President Hu Jintao held talks with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano on Monday, calling for a boost to ties between the two countries.
During the talks, Hu said Chinese-Italian relations have witnessed healthy and stable expansion over the past 39 years since the two countries established diplomatic relations.
In 2004, the two countries agreed to establish an all-around strategic partnership, unveiling a new page for Chinese-Italian friendly cooperation, Hu said.
As next year will mark the 40th anniversary of the forging of bilateral diplomatic relations, China is willing to join hands with Italy to lift bilateral ties to a higher level, Hu said.
According to a press release issued by the Chinese delegation, Napolitano agreed with Hu, saying cooperation between Italy and China has seen smooth expansion in a wide range of fields.
Napolitano said Italy is willing to further increase its economic cooperation and trade with China, exert every effort to host the "Chinese Culture Year" in Italy and push forward the development of bilateral ties at large.
In order to boost the ties, the Chinese president offered a five-point proposal, according to the press release.
Firstly, Hu said the two countries should increase communications,exchanges and mutual visits between high-level leaders.
Hu proposed that both sides host various events to mark the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, adding that much attention should be attached to the "Chinese Culture Year" next year in Italy.
Secondly, Hu said the two sides should enhance political mutual trust and understand each other's major concerns.
The Taiwan and Tibet issues are the key concerns of the Chinese side, Hu said, urging Italy to understand China's concerns and offer support.
Hu also said he believed Italy would continue to exert its influence within the European Union to boost the EU-China ties at large.