Friday, 22/03/2019 21:42 (GMT+7)
Chinese President Xi Jin-ping on March 21st left Beijing for state visits to Italy, Monaco and France, as Beijing looks to boost ties with the European Union.
Chinese President Xi Jin-ping (Photo: Xinhua/VNA)
Mr. Xi’s six-day visit, the first foreign visit this year, is at the invitation of Italy President Sergio Mattarella, Monaco leader Prince Albert II and French President Emmanuel Macron.
Xi will start his trip in Italy before heading to Monaco, the first visit by a Chinese President to the posh principality, and end his journey in France.
As China’s involvement in Europe grows, President Xi’s visit is being hailed by the Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi as a “journey to consolidate friendship, deepen cooperation and engage in strategic communication.”
The trip also sends a clear signal that despite changes in the international situation, China's foreign relations always gives priority to Europe, said Mr. Wang.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the trip will offer more positive energy to safeguard multilateralism and contribute to European countries' engagement in the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
President Xi Jin-ping will be making state visits between March 21st - 26th./.
Compiled by BTA