Belgian King Albert II met with visiting Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Brussels on Wednesday.

King Albert II welcomed Wen, saying the Chinese premier's visit represents China's strong willingness to develop friendly relations with Belgium.

China plays an active role in the international arena and Belgium will continue to deepen cooperation with China in various fields, said the king.

Leading a large trade and economic delegation, Prince Philippe will visit China this year to promote the two countries' ties, he added.

King Albert II also asked Wen to convey his regards to Chinese President Hu Jintao.

Delivering President Hu's greetings to King Albert II, Wen said the two countries have seen a rapid growth in their relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Located in the heart of Europe and serving as the headquarters of many international organizations and institutions, Belgium plays an important role in the international political, economic and cultural fields, Wen said.

The Chinese government attaches great importance to its relationship with Belgium and is willing to further promote long-term bilateral ties of mutual benefit, he added.

Thanks to persistent support and concern of King Albert II and his royal family, the ties between the two countries have resulted in fruitful cooperation, Wen noted.

Wen said he believed that the Sino-Belgian relations will have a wonderful future.

The premier arrived in the Belgian capital earlier in the day for a two-day official visit to the country and the headquarters of the European Union after winding up his three-day trip in Germany.

It is his first tour of Belgium after he took over the Chinese premiership.

Source: Xinhua