China and Albania signed seven cooperative documents in Beijing Monday to cement their cooperation in areas of economy, education, sports, broadcasting and television, among others.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Albanian Prime Minister Fatos Nano attended the signing ceremony following a meeting between the two.

The documents included economic and technological cooperation, exemption of double taxation, and cooperation in areas of education, sports, radio broadcasting and television, and in chambers of commerce.

Nano arrived in Beijing Monday on an official visit to China. It was the first meeting between the heads of the two governments in 38 years after the two countries established full diplomatic relations in November 1949.

Wen told Nano that China attaches great importance to its relations with Albania and hopes to bring bilateral relations to a higher ground under the principles of mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, and non-interference in each other's internal affairs.

"China is satisfied with the smooth growth of bilateral ties as we have strengthened political trust, expanded cooperation in economy, justice, culture, education and sports and other areas," Wen said.

The Chinese premier proposed that the two sides enhance political dialogue in various levels and expand exchange at levels of government, parliament, political parties and social organizations.

In addition, Wen said the two countries should upgrade the level of economic cooperation and trade, and encourage business people to invest in the other side.

Wen also appreciated the consistent one-China policy held by the Albanian government.

Nano agreed with Wen's proposals.

He said Albania hopes to expand cooperation with China in economic cooperation and trade in particular. Albania expects more Chinese companies to participate in the building of Albania's transportation, energy, telecommunications, electronics and construction sectors, he said.

The Albanian prime minister spoke highly of China's role as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council in promoting world and regional peace, security and development.

In addition, Nano reiterated Albanian government's one-China policy and its support on China's reunification cause.

(Xinhua News Agency September 14, 2004)