Jordanian Prime Minister Faisal al-Fayez on Wednesday discussed with visiting Chinese Deputy Trade Minister Liao Xiaoqi on ways to promote economic cooperation between the two countries.

During the meeting, Fayez cited the strong historical ties between the two sides, stressing Jordan's keenness to promote relations with China in political and economic fields.

The prime minister also expressed gratitude to China's economic assistance in Jordan's development programs.

For his part, the Chinese official restated China's willingness to promote trade with Jordan.

Their talks also covered the possibilities of building up cooperations between Jordanian and Chinese companies in rebuilding Iraq.

Liao, who heads a nine-member delegation, arrived in Amman Monday night for a three-day visit. 

(Xinhua News Agency October 14, 2004)