Norway recognized China as a full market economy Monday, becoming the 69th country to grant such status to the world's largest developing country.

The two countries signed a memorandum of understanding in which Norway formally recognized China's full market economy status after Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and visiting Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg held talks in Beijing on Monday.

During the talks, they agreed to launch a joint feasibility study on a free-trade agreement between the two countries at an early date.

They also agreed to improve trade, encourage mutual investment and expand cooperation on clean energy, energy saving, fishery and forestry.

The two countries also signed agreements on fishery cooperation and coping with climate change.

Stoltenberg arrived in Beijing on Sunday, kicking off his four-day official visit to China.

Source: Xinhua