Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini said Monday that he was satisfied with the agreement of journalism cooperation signed by China's news agency Xinhua and Italy's ANSA.

"It is of great significance that Xinhua and ANSA will enhance their cooperation and exchanges," Franco said when meeting with Xinhua News Agency President Tian Congming. The two are both influential news agencies in the world, he added.

The close cooperation in journalism will deepen the understanding and friendship between the Italian people and the Chinese people, he said.

Tian thanked Frattini and the Italian government's long-time support to Xinhua's Rome Bureau, saying Xinhua has strengthened its reporting on extensive European affairs.

The establishment of the European Regional Bureau of Xinhua in Brussels in May is a clear indication of Xinhua's focus on and commitment to reporting on Europe, Tian said.

"It is becoming more and more important for the world media to strengthen their cooperation and provide extensive information to the public due to the rapid globalization and harsh anti-terror situation," Tian said.

"The media should play a responsible role in fighting terrorism," Tian added.

On Monday, Xinhua and ANSA signed an agreement on news exchange and cooperation.

Source: Xinhua>