The first session of a forum between China and Spain concluded Friday after two days of discussions on a wide range of issues, including politics, economics, culture and sports.

The forum is a cooperative project decided by the government heads of the two countries in 2000. It is intended to boost bilateral exchanges and to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties. Annual meetings will be held to discuss issues of common concern.

Hu Qili, former vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and Juan Antonio Samaranch, former president of the International Olympic Committee, act as chairmen of the forum.

Participants at the first meeting were from governmental organs, non-governmental organizations and social groups. They were divided into four committees of politics, economics, culture and sports to discuss issues, including their foreign policies, trade and investment, cultural exchanges and Barcelona's experience for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

Addressing the closing ceremony, Hu said the forum was a bridge between the two sides, citing the establishment of an association for entrepreneurs. Such an organization would help communications in business and bring substantial exchanges and cooperation.

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