Premier Zhu Rongji Holds Talks with Spanish PM

Premier Zhu Rongji Welcomes Spanish PM

Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji Sunday told newly re-elected Spanish Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar during a meeting with him here that China is satisfied with the smooth development of bilateral relations.

Zhu congratulated Aznar on his election victory, and warmly welcomed him on his first visit to China.

Zhu said that thanks to the efforts made by the two sides, cooperation between China and Spain has scored remarkable achievements, and frequent contacts between leaders of the two countries have furthered bilateral relations.

He said that the two countries have worked together more in dealing with international affairs, as well as trade areas, adding that bilateral trade volumes have grown annually.

China thanks the Spanish government for providing seven batches of preferential loads, which plays a positive role in promoting bilateral trade and economic relations, he said, and added that cooperation and exchanges between China and Spain in scientific and technological and cultural fields have also increased.

Aznar said that cooperation between Spain and China in political, economic and cultural fields has developed steadily, and that he hoped to discuss with the Chinese side new areas and ways for furthering cooperation during his visit. A large group of Spanish businessmen accompanying him on the visit have shown great interest in developing economic and trade cooperation with China, he said.

Zhu said that China speaks highly of the tireless efforts of the Spanish government and Aznar to improve Sino-Spanish relations, and expressed gratitude for the friendly policy held by the Spanish government toward China on many issues concerning China's fundamental interests, including China's entry into the World Trade Organization.

China and Spain have shared interests in safeguarding world peace and seeking common development, they have complementary economies, and have enormous potential in cooperation, Zhu said. China is willing to work with Spain to further bilateral relations, he added.

Aznar said that Spain is determined to strengthen its relations with countries in the Asia-Pacific, adding that China is an influential country in the world, and Spain values its relations with China.

He said that Spain is a friend of China, and hopes for a better relationship with it, suggesting that dialogue between senior officials and an exchange mechanism in the political area should be established to work out a long-term program which would include sharing views frequently on important issues.

Aznar proposed that a Spain-China forum be built to strengthen exchanges between the two countries, and Zhu agreed with the idea.

Zhu briefed the visiting Spanish prime minister on the Chinese government's stance on the Taiwan issue, and expressed his appreciation for the Spanish government's adherence to the one-China policy.

Aznar said that he firmly supports China's reunification, and continues to pursue the one-China policy.

Zhu said that the further development of western China is providing enormous business opportunities for foreign business people. He welcomed the Spanish business community to participate in the process.

Aznar said that Spain pays close attention to China's reform and opening-up, admires China's achievements, and has a deep interest in taking part in China's development in various fields.

The Spanish government will encourage the Spanish high-tech enterprises to be involved in the areas of energy, information and infrastructure in China.

The two prime ministers also discussed the development of the European Union and Sino-EU relations. Aznar invited Zhu to visit Spain. Zhu thanked Aznar for the invitation.

After the talks, they attended a signing ceremony of an agreement on combating organized crime and a program on financial cooperation.

Prior to the talks, Zhu presided over a welcoming ceremony for Aznar, who arrived here this afternoon for a five-day official visit to China.