China's extraordinary economic development during the past few years has contributed a lot to the world's economic growth, said Hon. Claudio Scajola, minister of productive activities of Italy.

He made the remarks at the International Investment Forum of the Ninth China International Fair for Investment and Trade, which opened Thursday in Xiamen, a scenic city in east China's Fujian Province.

In 2004, China's gross domestic product (GDP) reached 13.65 trillion yuan (about US$1.68 trillion) and this is a positive sign in the global economy, he said.

A recent report by the Bank of Asia shows China's economic growth helped improve the quality of life in the Asian continent.

Scajola said Italy feels the influence of China, but that China also provides good opportunities for Italy to strengthen its investment in this oriental country so as to seize a bigger market share.

He said China's growth will mean more chances for the globalization of the Italian companies, especially the small- and medium-sized ones.

The Italian government is now improving the logistics infrastructure at its major ports and he said this is also good news for many Chinese investors.

Italy is planning to set 2006 as "China-Italy Year". In this way, Chinese people and especially those in its economic circle will be able to have a brand-new and more complete and view of Italy, Scajola said.

(Xinhua News Agency September 9, 2005)