Vilnius, Aug. 31, Chinese Vice Premier Hui Liangyu has praised the relationship with Lithuania during meetings with Lithuanian President Dalia Grybauskaite and Prime Minister Andrius Kubilius on Monday.

Hui told Grybauskaite Lithuania was a reliable friend and an important partner of China in the Baltic region. Bilateral relations had developed smoothly since the establishment of diplomatic ties 18 years ago with frequent high-level exchanges of visits and increased mutual political trust.

The establishment of the China-Lithuania Forum had provided a platform for deepening mutual understanding and expanding practical cooperation, he said.

The two countries also had witnessed fruitful economic cooperation, with bilateral trade reaching a record high in 2008.

China was ready to work with Lithuania to deepen the friendship, strengthen cooperation and push forward bilateral relations, he said.

Grybauskaite said the people of Lithuania regarded China highly. Lithuania appreciated China's status and its role in international affairs. She pledged that her country would promote all-round cooperation with China.

Hui and Kubilius said, Both sides emphasized the need to further promote mutual investment and cooperation between enterprises. The Lithuanian side welcomed the visit of a Chinese trade and investment promotion delegation with Hui.

Lithuania also pledged to participate in the 2010 Shanghai World Expo, Kubilius said.

After the talks, Hui and Kubilius attended a signing ceremony of several cooperation documents.

Hui also delivered a speech at a discussion forum of China-Lithuania entrepreneurs.

Related Chinese News:
回良玉会见立陶宛总统并与总理会谈