Chinese PM, German chancellor discuss bilateral ties

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang held telephone talks Tuesday with his German counterpart Angela Merkel on bilateral ties. Offering his congratulations on the victory of Merkel's Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Sunday's federal election, Li went on to say that encouraging progress has been made in bilateral relations and cooperation in various areas since he visited Germany in May. China appreciates the positive role Germany has played in facilitating a proper settlement of the China-EU trade dispute and stands ready to advance China-Germany relations from a long-term strategic perspective, he said. The Chinese premier voiced hope that Germany, as an important EU member, will continue to play a positive role in promoting the development of China-EU relations. Merkel said that Germany is willing to work with China to boost the healthy development of Germany-China relations and strengthen cooperation in various areas. She also expressed thanks for Li's congratulations.