Zhu Rongji Meets Italian President
Ciampi, who had visited China three times, told Zhu that he was deeply impressed by China's rapid economic expansion and achievements. China is playing an increasingly important role in international affairs and Italy especially appreciates its constructive role during the Asian financial crisis, Ciampi said. He said Italy will continue sticking to a one-China policy and support China's early accession to the World Trade Organization. Zhu said bilateral ties have been developing smoothly since the establishment of diplomatic relations three decades ago. Sino-Italian relations are at their best period ever and the frequent contacts between leaders of the two countries have strengthened mutual understanding and friendship. The two countries have made plentiful achievements amid strengthened exchanges and cooperation in various fields, the Chinese premier said. He thanked the Italian government for sticking all along to the one-China policy and for its support for the great cause of China' s reunification. China and Italy, both wielding major influences in the world, have identical or similar views on many important international issues, with positive roles in maintaining world peace and enhancing international cooperation, Zhu said. He said China attaches great importance to Italy's important status and the role it plays in the world as well as the development of comprehensive and long-term cooperation with Italy. Zhu said he has full confidence in the prospects of Sino-Italian relations because the two countries share many common points in the political field and their economies are highly complementary. Before meeting Ciampi, Zhu visited Campidoglio, the Municipal Palace of ancient-Rome style, accompanied by Mayor Francesco Rutelli of the capital city. The Chinese premier arrived Wednesday on an official visit to Italy, the fifth leg of his current Europe tour. On Thursday, he met with Italian Prime Minister Giuliano Amato, Senate Speaker Nicola Mancino and Chamber of Deputies Speaker Luciano Violante. Before his meetings with the parliamentary leaders Thursday, the Chinese premier delivered a speech at the Italian Confederation of Industrial Employers (Confindustria), calling for more Italian investment in China and enhanced cooperation between the small and medium-sized enterprises of both countries. Zhu arrived in the central city of Florence late Friday to continue his Italy tour. He will also visit Venice. From Italy, Zhu will travel on to Brussels on an official visit to Belgium and the EU headquarters based there. | |
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