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China devoted to closer ties with Cyprus - Vice President

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-10-25 08:56

BEIJING -- Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping said here Friday that China was willing to work with Cyprus to strengthen the political foundation of bilateral relations and promote exchanges and cooperation in various fields.

In his meeting with Cypriot President Demetris Christofias, Xu described the two countries as "all-weather friends and partners, "and said China would work with Cyprus to expand trade and economic cooperation.

He called for concerted efforts to build platforms for companies of both countries to increase cooperation, address the trade imbalance between two countries and promote mutual investment.

"The Chinese side encouraged domestic enterprises to participate in infrastructure projects in Cyprus, such as construction of ports, roads and telecommunication facilities," he said, adding that China also welcome enterprises of Cyprus to invest in China.

The Cypriot president, who is here to attend the Asia-Europe Meeting,also spoke highly of bilateral relations and cooperation in various fields.

Cyprus appreciated China's role in international affairs as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, he said.

The Cypriot president said Cyprus wished to deepen the long-standing friendship between the two countries, and widen cooperation in the fields of economy and trade, culture and tourism.

China established diplomatic relations with the Mediterranean nation in 1971.