Visiting Chinese Vice President ZengQinghong held talks here Monday with Tunisian Prime Minister Mohamed Ghannouchi, both expressing desire to deepening bilateral cooperation in various fields.

Zeng, highly appraising the development of Sino-Tunisian relations, said this year marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Tunisia, and for a long period of time, the two countries respect each other, cooperate sincerely, and support each other in international affairs.

Zeng said cooperation between China and Tunisia in economy, trade, tourism, education and health has been expanding and deepening in recent years with remarkable achievements.

China thanks Tunisia for its valuable support to China on important issues such as Taiwan and human rights, Zeng said, adding that the Chinese government is willing to work together with the Tunisian government to push the Sino-Tunisian relations to a new high.

To further deepen the friendly cooperation in various fields, the Chinese vice president suggested frequent exchange of high-level visits, more cooperation in economy and trade, tourism, education and health, and closer consultation and coordination on important international and regional affairs.

Zeng expressed China's hopes that Tunisia, as the rotating chair of the Arab League summit, makes positive efforts to promote the relations between China and Arabic countries.

Agreeing with Zeng's appraisal of the bilateral ties and suggestions, the Tunisian prime minister said the foundation of the relationship between Tunisia and China is solid and the bilateral cooperation is good, and the two countries always trust each other and respect each other.

Ghannouchi said cooperation between Tunisia and China is in keeping with the aspirations of the two peoples and their interests.

The Tunisian prime minister said Tunisia hopes to discuss with China on new ways and new areas for economic and trade cooperation.

Speaking highly of China's contribution to maintain world peace and promote common development, Ghannouchi said Tunisia is willing to make great efforts for strengthening relations between Arabic countries and China.

After the talks, the two countries signed eight cooperation agreements, including an agreement concerning the reciprocal encouragement and protection of investments. Ghannouchi and Zeng were present at the signing ceremony.

Source: Xinhua