Visiting Portuguese Prime Minister Jose Socrates said Wednesday he hopes more Chinese businessmen invest in Portugal and believes his country can be a bridge for Chinese companies looking to enter markets in the European Union (EU) and in Africa.

Addressing a "China-Portugal Trade Forum", Socrates said Portugal-China trade ties are entering a "golden era". The two countries have not only enjoyed sound political ties but also expanded trade cooperation, he said.

Developing a comprehensive Portugal-China strategic partnership is a priority of Portugal's foreign policy, Socrates said.

Portugal will assume the rotating presidency of the EU in the second half of 2007. Socrates said his country can serve as a door for Chinese companies looking to enter the EU market.

Portugal's close ties with Portuguese-speaking African countries can be of assistance to Chinese companies in their business in Africa, he said.

Over 20 Portuguese companies now do business in China. Socrates hopes the number will reach 100 in the near future.

More than 300 businessmen from the two countries took part in the forum.

Cementing trade ties with China is a key goal for Socrates' current China trip which started on Tuesday.

During his stay, Socrates will hold talks with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and meet with Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo and Vice President Zeng Qinghong.

It is Socrates' first visit to China since he took office as prime minister in 2005.

Source: Xinhua