Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Wednesday that China wants Luxembourg to play an active role in developing relations between China and the European Union (EU).
Xi made the remarks during a meeting with visiting Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, saying that he hopes Luxembourg can push the EU to provide more favorable conditions for the development of China-EU cooperation.
Xi said that China and Luxembourg have a long history of friendly exchanges and the two countries have been committed to mutually beneficial cooperation since they established diplomatic ties 45 years ago.
Chinese President Xi Jinping speaks during a meeting with visiting Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China on June 14, 2017. /CGTN Photo
He said China sees Luxembourg as an important cooperative partner within the EU and is ready to work to build a long-term stable partnership and promote bilateral ties.
Xi stressed that both sides should adhere to principles of equality and mutual respect and provide mutual understanding and support on issues of common concern.
Both countries should improve practical cooperation in traditional fields like finance, said Xi.
Xi also suggested greater cooperation in areas such as air transportation, high and new technology and green economy.
The two countries should deepen finance and capacity cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative, Xi said, adding that China supports the construction of an "Air Silk Road" between Zhengzhou and Luxembourg.
Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel listens while meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China on June 14, 2017. /CGTN Photo
Bettel said both countries' economies are highly complementary and Luxembourg is keen to expand cooperation in finance, investment, science and technology, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
Luxembourg is ready to play an active role in promoting dialogue between China and the EU, Bettel said.
Chinese top legislator Zhang Dejiang also met with Bettel on Wednesday, calling for more parliamentary exchanges between the two sides.
(Source: Xinhua)
