Hu calls for expanding Sino-Spanish cooperation
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-11-14 07:12

Chinese President Hu Jintao said Sunday that China attaches great importance to expanding mutually beneficial cooperation with Spain in the interests of both peoples.

In a written statement issued upon his arrival here for a two-day state visit, Hu highlighted Spain's long history, splendidculture and remarkable contribution to the progress of human civilization.

The friendly exchanges between Chinese and Spanish peoples dateback to a long time ago and the political relations between the two countries have become increasingly strong since the establishment of bilateral ties 32 years ago, Hu said.

The bilateral economic and trade cooperation has been fruitful and contacts and exchanges in all fields have steadily been boosted, said the president.

China attaches great importance to developing relations with Spain and is ready to further strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in the interests of both peoples, he said.

Hu said that he would exchange views on the issues of common concern with Spanish leaders and meet representatives from variouscircles in Spain before he winds up his visit here on Tuesday.

Spain is the third leg of Hu's four-nation European-Asian trip,which has already taken him to Britain and Germany.

Hu will visit the Republic of Korea (ROK) and attend the Economic Leaders' Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation(APEC) slated for Nov. 18-19 in Busan.