Slovakia is an important partner for China in central and east Europe, and China will work to promote bilateral friendly cooperation, said Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Beijing Monday.

 

 

Wen told visiting Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico that consolidating bilateral relations is in the interest of the two countries.

 

He made several suggestions for enhancing bilateral relations and cooperation, including closer exchanges between governments, parliaments and political parties of the two countries, consultations and dialogue on bilateral relations and major international issues, more cooperation in technology and the information industry, and more visits by art groups and universities.

 

Fico said Slovakia is determined to push forward relations with China. He encouraged more Chinese companies to invest there and favored more cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries.

 

He said Slovakia, as an EU member state, will contribute to the European Union’s effort to develop its comprehensive strategic partnership with China.

 

As a partner of the European Union, Wen said China has always approached China-EU relations from a strategic, long-term perspective.

 

China will work with all EU members including Slovakia to strengthen political trust, promote cooperation, aid in negotiations on the new Partnership and Cooperation Agreement, and open dialogue between countries, Wen said.

 

Fico reiterated Slovakia's firm adherence to the one-China policy, and called for more bilateral consultations and coordination on multilateral affairs.

 

After the meeting, the two prime ministers signed documents on cooperation in areas such as agriculture and education.

 

The meeting was an important element of Fico's five-day official China visit, his first trip to China since he assumed the office of prime minister last July.

 

(Xinhua News Agency February 6, 2007)