Visiting Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji held talks with Belgian King Albert II in Brussels on Thursday, expressing satisfaction with the development of bilateral ties over the past 30 years.
Zhu told the King that he was happy to visit Belgium on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of the founding of diplomatic relations between the two countries, saying that cooperation in various areas between the two countries has made great progress since he visited the country last year.
The Chinese premier said bilateral trade increased rapidly and exchanges in the fields of sciences, technology, education and culture became more active. He told the king that he and leaders of the European Union (EU) had made an in-depth exchange of views on promoting all-round and friendly cooperation with China.
The EU attaches great importance to developing relations with China and China will be responsive to EU's moves. Zhu expressed his confidence that China's relations with all EU members, including Belgium, will be continuously enhanced.
Premier Zhu conveyed Chinese President Jiang Zemin's cordial greetings to the Belgian king. The King asked Zhu to convey his cordial greetings to President Jiang Zemin.
The King recalled his two visits to China and expressed his belief that Belgium-China friendship has taken root in the heart of the people. He said he hoped that China's accession into the World Trade Organization would give a boost to Belgium-China bilateral trade.
The King also congratulated China on its successful bidding for hosting the 2008 Olympics. He assured Zhu that Belgium would support China in hosting the world games.
Zhu, on behalf of President Jiang Zemin, invited King Albert II to visit China, and the king accepted the invitation.
(Xinhua News Agency 09/07/2001)
