Chinese, Italian foreign ministers hold talks

SHANGHAI - Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday held talks with Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio, who is in Shanghai for the second China International Import Expo (CIIE).

Wang said he believes the participation of Italy, one of the guest countries of honor for the second CIIE, will help increase Italian exports to China and promote further development of bilateral economic and trade relations.

China appreciates Italy's long-term and strategic perspective in developing relations with China, and is ready to work with Italy to promote deeper and more concrete cooperation in jointly building the Belt and Road, Wang said.

Wang added the two sides should strive to boost people-to-people exchanges and ensure the success of the China-Italy year of culture and tourism next year.

Di Maio said Italy is willing to provide an open, fair and non-discriminatory environment for the investment from Chinese companies, and will continue to play a positive role in promoting the healthy development of Europe-China relations.