BEIJING, March 29 -- Chinese President Jiang Zemin on Wednesday proclaimed the current visit by Spanish King Juan Carlos and his wife, Queen Reina Dona Sofia, as one that will enhance close bilateral ties. Jiang made the remarks as he greeted the royal couple in the Great Hall of the People and noted that Sino-Spanish ties have progressed well in recent years. High-ranking officials from both countries have exchanged visits and bilateral economic co-operation and trade have expanded continuously, he said. Furthering those trade ties is a principal objective behind the trip, which the Spanish monarchs are making at Jiang's invitation, along with an entourage of about 200 business leaders and government officials. Jiang briefed his visitors about China's economic growth and even compared the countries by saying Madrid's success in advancing its national economy and culture is like China's efforts to reform its markets and open up its economy. Jiang also said the countries share long, rich histories and have contributed greatly to eastern and western civilizations. This is the second trip to China for the Spanish king and queen, who first visited 17 years ago. During the meeting Wednesday, the king extended an invitation to Jiang, who also is head of the Communist Party. A banquet in honor of the royals was scheduled for Wednesday evening. Carlos told Jiang he was pleased to visit China again at a time when development was occurring on all fronts. He said the exchange of visits between leaders of the two countries is important in promoting relations.
The monarch said he hoped for a deepening of understanding and friendship between Beijing and Madrid, and said he wished for enhanced bilateral relations in every field, particularly in economic cooperation and trade. He said the entrepreneurs travelling with him were eager to explore new business opportunities with their counterparts in China. Compared with other European countries, Madrid's investment in China is small. Spanish officials in Beijing said bilateral trade amounts to only 25 percent of the value of Sino-German transactions, for example. However, Sino-Spanish trade rose sharply last year to $1.65 billion, with Spanish exports to China soaring by 90.2 percent to $900 million. Spanish Ambassador to China Juan Lena cited opportunities for Spanish investors in such sectors as infrastructure, energy, iron and steel, chemicals, and electronic and textile machinery.
