VP calls for economic partnership on Portugal visit

Vice-President Han Zheng has reaffirmed China's commitment to deepen cooperation with Portugal and the European Union to promote the growth of the economy and aid global economic recovery during a visit to Portugal from Sunday to Tuesday.

In remarks made during a meeting with Portugal's President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, Han said cooperation should be the mainstay for ties between Beijing and Lisbon, as well as China and the EU.

China remains committed to friendly cooperation with different countries, promoting the development of a new type of international relations and expanding the convergence of interests with various countries, he said.

With the full reopening of the Chinese economy and society, countries including Portugal will see greater opportunities for cooperation with China, he said.

Rebelo de Sousa said his country is committed to developing a bilateral relationship of friendship, mutual trust and proactive cooperation.

Lisbon stands ready to further bolster high-level exchanges, deepen bilateral cooperation over trade, science and technology and people-to-people exchanges, he said, adding the nation will continue to help promote constructive cooperation between EU and China.

During a meeting with Portugal's Prime Minister Antonio Costa, Han said China has always prioritized its traditional friendship with Portugal and promoted and developed their bilateral strategic partnership.

He said Beijing encourages Chinese businesses to invest in Portugal and welcomes businesses of various countries, including those from Portugal, to invest and grow in China.

Costa expressed hope the two sides can further invigorate trade and cooperation between China and Portuguese-speaking countries, work toward further pragmatic cooperation and expand third-party cooperation with African nations.