"Political relations between the two countries are amicable, and today's talks were open and useful," said Mr Janša, after meeting his host, the Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China, Wen Jiabao, in Beijing. The official visit is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, the promotion of the Slovenian economy in China, discussing relations between the EU and the Pople's Republic of China in the light of the forthcoming Presidency of the Council of the EU, and exchanging views on international political issues.

 

(Photo: Tina Kosec/Bobo)

 

The PM's visit marks the 15th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations and continuation of permanent bilateral dialogue. Countries have signed bilateral agreements in the area of economy, culture, science, technology and education. Relations have been developing favourably, particularly in the areas of the economy, health, research cooperation, culture and cooperation between cities.

 

In his statement to members of the press accompanying the visit the PM said that he and his host had discussed bilateral cooperation between the two countries and focused on trade. Economic cooperation is increasing by the year, as in 2006 trade in goods totalled 299.3 million euros, a 28.4 per cent increase over 2005. There are about 30 Slovenian or mixed ownership companies or representations in China. They also discussed the trade deficit of both Slovenia and the EU. It is in the mutual interest of both countries that trade is as balanced as possible. Several steps have been taken in this respect: mixed commission on trade and economic cooperation between the Republic of Slovenia and the People's republic of China met today, while the Public Agency of the Republic of Slovenia for Entrepreneurship and Foreign Investments will open an office in Shanghai on Saturday and will provide assistance both to companies looking for business contacts in the Chinese market and those already established there. The focus of this official visit of the PM, who is accompanied by the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Economy, and Health is on economic issues. Therefore, the delegation includes 55 representatives of Slovenian companies and different business institutions.

 

(Photo: Tina Kosec/Bobo)

 

In addition, the Slovenian PM and Chinese Premier discussed cooperation between the EU and China. Mr Janša informed his host of Slovenia's priorities during the EU Presidency, and they also exchanged views on key foreign policy issues and oustanding issues in the international community, discussing at some length the future status of Kosovo and the situation in the region. The PM asked his Chinese hosts to support Slovenia's application for non-permanent membership on the UN Security Council in 2012 and 2013.

 

Today, good bilateral relations were further strengthened by signing six bilateral agreements on defence, culture, education, veterinary affairs, economy and academic cooperation.

 

(Photo: Tina Kosec/Bobo)

 

Tomorrow the PM will attend a Slovenian-Chinese business conference in Beijing, and will be received by the President of the People's Republic of China, Hu Jintao, and the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, Wu Bangguo.