Italy prone to lift arms sales ban against China

Italy is prone to EU's lifting of arms sales embargo against China, said visiting Italian Prime Minister Romano Prodi on Monday in Beijing.

Prodi made the remarks when meeting the press after holding official talks with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

This year marks the China-Italy year that involves a wide range of activities on trade, culture and science. The Italian prime minister is accompanied with a huge business delegation of about 700 entrepreneurs in finance, industry and trade.

The Italian prime minister started his six-day official visit to China on Sept. 13 that also took him to the port city of Tianjin, the eastern city of Nanjing as well as Shanghai and Guangzhou.

The EU enacted its arms embargo on China after the events of 1989. China considers the embargo a barrier to the smooth development of normal relations between China and the EU, both of whom have vowed to deepen a strategic partnership.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao called on the European side to make correct political resolution independently for lifting arms ban against China after the ninth China-EU Summit held in Finland on Sept. 9 this year.

Wen said lifting arms embargo against China "could wipe out barriers amidst the growth of Sino-European ties" and "comply with Europe's own interests."

Prodi also touched upon the issue of China's full market economy status. He said the issue should be resolved at "an earlier date" and not be delayed any further.

During talks between the two prime ministers, Wen called the relationship "the best ever in history", putting forward four areas for further cooperation. They include the political, economic, scientific and cultural field.

"Chinese government will offer more help for the exchanges between the small and medium-sized enterprises of the two countries," Wen said, vowing to properly handle the trade dispute and unbalance.

He also said the two countries should enhance cooperation on the reform of the United Nations, anti-terrorism and development.

On environmental protection, Wen called for exploring new energy resources and sustainable development. On cultural and educational fields, Wen encouraged the exchanges of students and expressed China's willingness to hold China culture year in Italy at the right time.

Prodi said it is of particular significance for him to lead a large delegation to visit China, adding that Italy would like to push forward cooperation with China in all fields.

He said Italy is interested in participating in China's construction for the 2008 Olympic Game, as well as the World Expo'.

He expressed appreciation for China's participation in the UN peacekeeping operation, reaffirming Italy adheres to one-China policy.

As the former European Commission chief, Prodi said he will continue to promote the relationship between China and the European Union.

After talks, the two prime ministers witnessed the signing of cooperative documents in various fields including agriculture, science and technology, education and health.

Source: Xinhua