(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-02-15 23:37

BEIJING - German Chancellor Angela Merkel expressed sympathy with snow-stricken China in a telephone conversation on bilateral ties with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Friday.

Merkel went on to say that her country is dedicated to developing a strategic partnership with China, reinforcing cooperation in bilateral and international affairs.

She said Germany will continue firmly supporting and abiding by the One-China policy, opposing Taiwan's referendum on entering the United Nations, as well as Tibet's independence.

She wished the Beijing Olympics success.

Wen said the Chinese government has always paid great attention to the Sino-German relationship from a strategic height and long-term angle.

Under current circumstances, China's and Germany's common interests have expanded continuously, and common challenges have increased by the day, Wen said, adding that the two countries need to strengthen cooperation and deal with new situations jointly.

Both sides should make joint efforts to ensure the bilateral ties move forward in a healthy and smooth way under the guidance of the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit without interfering in each other's domestic affairs, Wen said.

Merkel and Wen also exchanged views on issues like the world's economic situation, climate change, and dialogue and cooperation between developing and developed countries.