Chinese, Slovenian presidents hold talks

Source: Xinhua | 10-24-2008 15:01

BEIJING, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese government has always taken Slovenia as one important partner of China in Central and Eastern Europe and is willing to work with the Slovenian side to push forward bilateral relations, Chinese President Hu Jintao said here Friday.

During talks with Slovenian President Danilo Turk, Hu suggested that the two countries strengthen mutual political trust and support and cooperate with each other in issues of each other's core interest.

For this purpose, Hu suggested the two sides keep the momentum of high-profile exchange of visits, expand understanding between the governments, legislatures, political parties and people of the two countries, and enhance consultations and dialogues to increase mutual understanding and trust.

"The two sides should better outline, guide and coordinate bilateral trade and economic cooperation," Hu said, adding that investment environment should be improved to stimulate cooperation between enterprises and accelerate infrastructure construction, innovations, energy conservation, environmental protection and port transportation.

The Chinese president spoke highly of the China-Slovenia relations, saying sound progress had been made since the two countries established diplomatic relations 16 years ago.

To further improve the ties on the basis of mutual respect, equality and reciprocity, Hu also called for more exchanges in the fields of culture, education, sports, health, tourism and press between the two countries, as measures to consolidate the social basis of sound bilateral relations.

"The two countries should strengthen consultation and coordination in multi-lateral international and regional mechanisms such as the United Nations and the Asia-Europe Meeting, and work together to promote world peace, stability and prosperity," he said.

Turk agreed Hu's comments and suggestions on the bilateral relations and expressed satisfaction with the current political, economic and trade ties between Slovenia and China.

The Slovenian side hoped to enhance bilateral trade and economic relations, as well as explore more ways of investment and cooperation, he said.

The Slovenian president said his country was devoted to pushing the European Union to develop relations with China, and hoped that Slovenia and China would have more consultations and cooperation in international affairs.

Turk said the general stability in the Balkan Peninsula remained fragile and hoped China would continue playing a role in maintaining lasting peace and prosperity there.

Hu said it was China's hope that Balkan countries would properly resolve their problems left over by history through dialogue and work together to build a West Balkan of lasting peace and shared prosperity.

Hu promised China would continue promoting the peace process in West Balkan.

Editor:Zhang Ning