The comprehensive development of Sino-Czech relations is in the fundamental interests of both countries, said Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Beijing Thursday.  

Wen made the remark while meeting with visiting Czech President Vaclav Klaus. The Chinese government values relations with the Czech Republic and will make joint efforts with the Czech side to push forward mutually beneficial cooperation in politics, economy, culture and education, said Wen.

The two countries with complementary economy have enjoyed sound cooperation, said Wen, adding that the bilateral trade volume has seen a noticeable increase and the two sides have conducted fruitful cooperation in such fields as electricity and scientific and technological exchanges.

Wen said under new circumstances, the two sides should work for expanding trade, participating in each other's economic construction and widening technological cooperation.

Impressed by China's remarkable development, Klaus said the Czech side attaches importance to relations with China and will push forward friendly cooperation between the two countries.

The Czech government values the economic and trade cooperation with China as well and will take steps to promote the relations, Klaus said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 23, 2004)