The European Union (EU) vowed to beef up cooperation with Sichuan Province in environment protection, energy, education, iron and steel, chemical industry and water conservancy.
   
Several European ambassadors to China made the remarks while visiting southwest China's Sichuan Province, noted for its abundant agricultural resources and produce.
   
"The future cooperation between the EU and China will focus on environmental protection, energy and education," said Serge Abou, head of the European Union Delegation of the European Commission to China. At present, the EU-China natural forest management project is being promoted in Sichuan. The two sides are considering developing energy projects such as boiler design.
   
"Boasting convenient transportation, clever people and unique cuisine, Sichuan is full of attractions," Abou said.
   
"The British government is determined to strengthen cooperation with Sichuan," said Christopher Hum, British ambassador to China. The establishment of a British visa center in Chengdu is for the convenience of Sichuan residents who want to travel to Britain.
   
In addition to ongoing cooperation in science and education, a British trade delegation will visit Sichuan this year, and similar activities will become more frequent, Hum said.
   
Luxembourg ambassador to China Marc Ungeheuer, whose country now holds the rotating EU presidency, spoke highly of Sichuan's natural resources. He said Luxembourg and Sichuan enjoy the broad prospect of cooperation in the fields of iron and steel, chemical industry and water conservancy.
   
Luxembourg co-built the Luxembourg Steel (Sichuan) Co. Ltd in Sichuan in 2001.
   
There is hope of opening an air cargo route between Luxembourg and Sichuan owing to the frequent economic and trade exchanges, according to Ungeheuer.
   
The delegation composed of the European Commission ambassador to China and ambassadors of 14 European countries, arrived in Sichuan Province Thursday at the invitation of the provincial government. The delegation concluded the visit on Sunday.

(Xinhua News Agency April 11, 2005)