International: Chinese President Xi Jinping held bilateral talks with Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa, who is on a state visit to China, at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on the afternoon of August 18.

President Xi Jinping noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Ecuador. Regardless of changes in the international situation, China has always viewed its relations with Ecuador from a strategic height and with a long-term perspective. China is ready to work with Ecuador to elevate bilateral relations to a new level and jointly promote the well-being of the people of both countries.

Xi emphasized that the two countries should continue to understand and support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns. China respects and supports Ecuador’s efforts to explore a development path suited to its own national conditions.

He called for the two countries to make full use of the benefits of the bilateral free trade agreement and strengthen strategic coordination in infrastructure, energy, mineral resources and financing projects, while expanding cooperation in emerging areas such as the digital economy, green development, renewable energy and artificial intelligence.

China is also committed to facilitating greater bilateral exchanges and cooperation in healthcare, poverty alleviation, disaster response, education, culture, youth affairs and sports, Xi said.

In response, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa said China is an extremely important partner and close friend of Ecuador. Through the joint efforts of both countries, Ecuador-China relations have entered a new stage.

Ecuador is committed to deepening political mutual trust with China, supporting China in safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, and respecting China’s position on the one-China principle, Noboa said.

Ecuador is also ready to expand trade with China in areas including commerce, financing, mineral resources, renewable energy, technology and culture, while welcoming Chinese investors to participate in the country’s development, he added.

Following the bilateral talks, the two heads of state witnessed the signing of several memorandums of understanding and agreements covering green industries, economic and trade cooperation, the digital economy and public welfare-oriented infrastructure.

Source: Xueyi-Touhid-Jinia, China Media Group.