Wen hopes EU to ease access for new capital

In his first visit to China since taking office, Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti expressed a desire for more investment from China to spur new growth, as the current austerity measures are potentially damaging the country's economic growth.

"I saw great interest in mutual investment from both sides," he told reporters on Saturday after his meeting with Premier Wen Jiabao.

Monti said the Chinese government has encouraged domestic enterprises to expand their investment in Italy.

Wen has also expressed hope that Italy will push the European Union to create a more open and convenient investment environment, according to Monti.

Monti said he hoped his trip could "generate some new enthusiasm toward the country".

In the four months since he took over from his predecessor Silvio Berlusconi, Monti and his technocrat cabinet have staved off a crisis that could push Italy into insolvency.

Premier Wen Jiabao welcomes visiting Italian Prime Minister Mario Monti at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Saturday. Liu Weibing / Xinhua