Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday held talks with Prince Albert II, head of state of the Principality of Monaco, pledging to further promote bilateral friendly ties with the European country.

Xi pointed out that Monaco has a unique charm. For a long time, it has formed a development path with its own characteristics.

China has consistently maintained that all countries, no matter big or small, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community, which is the proper way to build a new type of international relations, Xi added.

Xi also called the efforts for the two sides to explore cooperation in fields of environmental protection, climate change, clean energy, and wildlife protection under Belt and Road Initiative.

Prince Albert II congratulated Xi on the successful hosting of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

"This is my tenth visit to China," the prince said. "I can see new achievements in economic, social and cultural development each time when I come here."

"Monaco is satisfied with the bilateral ties between the two countries and highly appreciates and actively supports China's important role in international affairs," said Prince Albert II, showing his willingness to strengthen mutual benefit and win-win cooperation with China.

Prince Albert II is paying a state visit to China from Sept. 5 to 8 at the invitation of Xi.

(Cover: Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) shakes hand with Prince Albert II of Monaco in Beijing,  September 7, 2018. /Xinhua Photo)