Xi Jinping holds talks with Italian president

Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella in Beijing on Friday, saying the two countries should make joint efforts to build a world of harmonious coexistence.

Mattarella is in China for a state visit at the invitation of Xi.

Noting that this year marks the 20th anniversary of the China-Italy comprehensive strategic partnership, Xi said China and Italy, both ancient civilizations, should uphold their traditions of openness and inclusiveness, and encourage the international community to resolve differences through dialogue and rise above conflicts through cooperation.

He called on the two sides to deepen cultural exchanges and enhance cooperation in trade, technology and environmental fields.

Noting that this year marks the 700th anniversary of the death of Italian traveler Marco Polo, Xi stressed the need for the two sides to support language teaching and youth exchanges.

Regarding relations between China and Europe, Xi said that China takes Europe as an important partner on the path toward realizing Chinese modernization. He urged the two sides to seek win-win cooperation and manage their differences properly to ensure that bilateral relations are more mature and stable, as duly expected.

"China is willing to strengthen cooperation with the European side to cope with global challenges and hopes that Italy can play a positive role in this regard," Xi said.  

For his part, Mattarella recalled past visits, expressing Italy's commitment to friendship with China, supporting the one-China principle and enhancing collaboration in culture and education.

Following the talks, the leaders witnessed the signing of agreements on cultural and educational cooperation and Xi hosted a banquet for Mattarella.

(With input from Xinhua)