Premier Wen Jiabao meets with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano in Zhongnanhai, Beijing

On October 27, 2010, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with Italian President Giorgio Napolitano in Ziguangge, Zhongnanhai.

During the meeting, Wen recalled his visit to Italy early this month, during which both sides celebrated the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties, announced a three-year action plan on strengthening economic cooperation and launched the Year of Chinese Culture in Italy. He said Napolitano's trip had boosted the confidence of both countries to deepen friendly cooperation. "I believe our relations will witness vigorous growth and move on to a new development stage with joint efforts of both sides," Wen said.

Wen said China and Italy, as two nations with ancient civilizations, had significant influence in the world. He attributed the two nations' development to the inheritance of cultural traditions while sticking to reform and opening-up, and respect for the progressive thought and achievement of other nations. Wen called on both sides to contribute wisdom and strength to world peace, harmony and cooperation.

Napolitano made positive comments on the development of bilateral ties. He said Premier Wen's successful visit to Italy not long ago had stepped up the growth of relations, and his current China visit would promote mutual understanding and friendship. Countries with different historical and cultural backgrounds should respect and learn from each other, which is the demand of the times. China had never been big-headed, nor did it sidestep problems and challenges, said Napolitano. He believed China, with clear goals, would make greater contributions to the world. He said Italy fully respected the development path China chose for itself, vowing concerted efforts with the country to boost common development.

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, MOC International Trade Representative & Vice Minister of Commerce Gao Hucheng and Chinese Ambassador to Italy Ding Wei attended the meeting.