Chinese leaders meet ASEM guests

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Source: CCTV.com | 10-25-2008 09:00

On the sidelines of the ASEM summit, President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao have also been holding bilateral talks with a number of foreign leaders.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (2nd L) sits opposite to the President of European Commission Jose Manuel Barroso  (3rd R) before their talks begin in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing October 23, 2008.(David Gray/Reuters)

China and Slovenia first established diplomatic relations 16 years ago. During a meeting between President Hu Jintao and his Slovenian counterpart Danilo Turk, the two sides vowed to work together to take friendly cooperation to a new level. The two leaders also agreed to work together to maintain peace and stability in the Balkan Peninsula.

While meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Hu Jintao said the two countries should cherish good bilateral relations. He explained China's attitudes towards dealing with the global financial crisis, saying China is willing to communicate with Germany. Merkel urged the two countries to increase trade and economic cooperation.

In talks with French President Nicolas Sarkozy, Hu Jintao expressed hope that bilateral relations would continue to develop, as the two countries celebrate the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. Sarkozy said France has not changed its view of China as a strategic partner.

Hu Jintao also spoke with Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso. He said bilateral ties have entered a new stage, and are presented with opportunities for development. He called on both sides to increase dialogue and mutual trust through political exchanges, economic cooperation, and communication. Aso agreed, saying the two countries should deepen communication and cooperation, especially in challenging times.

The two leaders also attended a ceremony to mark the 30th anniversary of the bilateral Peace and Friendship Treaty. Hu Jintao said the treaty has played an important role in guiding the development of Sino-Japan relations. He said China and Japan have maintained generally good relations during the past three decades, despite difficulties and challenges.