"The objective of our state visit is to start a new chapter in the relationship between China and Belgium," said King Albert II at a press conference. "I'm very delighted to see that bilateral relations have been strengthened.”

Hu said relations have maintained a good momentum of development, and that high-level exchange visits have been frequent in recent years. This has resulted in an increase in political trust and the expansion of economic and trade cooperation.

"China attaches importance to relations with Belgium, and would like to promote political dialogue, economic and trade cooperation, and exchanges in biological, pharmaceutical, and microelectronics fields," he said.

The Belgian king, on an eight-day visit, said Belgium is seeking to intensify high-level political dialogue. "We would also like to develop our relations in academic and scientific fields, and that's why our delegation includes rectors of universities, top-level scientists and sinologists."

Hu expressed appreciation for the adherence of Belgium to the “one-China” policy, and its support on Taiwan and Tibet issues, and called upon both sides to enhance consultation on UN reforms, EU relations, and other international and regional issues.

King Albert arrived in Beijing on Saturday morning for the first China tour by a Belgian head of state in the past 24 years. Monday was his 71st birthday, and many representatives of Belgian enterprises in China presented him with gifts.

(Xinhua News Agency June 7, 2005)