Chinese President Hu Jintao told his Syrian counterpart Bashar al-Assad on Tuesday that the two countries should expand economic and trade ties and strengthen relations across the board.
Assad, the first Syrian head of state to visit since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1956, is seeking to modernise Syria's economy and overcome debilitating US sanctions by adopting Chinese-style reforms.
"China appreciates that Syria attaches importance to the development of Sino-Syria relations," Hu was quoted by China Central Television as telling Assad in their meeting.
"We should expand economic and trade co-operation and carry out trade in infrastructure, textiles and home appliances, while at the same time giving full play to our advantages and actively develop mutually beneficial trade in other areas."
Hu said they should step up exchanges in all areas, including high level contacts and political and civil exchanges.
At the same time, China would continue its efforts with the international community to reach peace and stability in the Middle East, Hu said.
"History shows that the Middle East peace process can only make progress through the relevant UN resolutions, the land for peace principle and resolving the disputes through negotiation," Hu said.
"Syria is a major party in the Middle East peace process. China supports resolving disputes between Syria and Israel through peaceful negotiations."
Assad said Syria was willing to maintain close contacts with China on the Middle East situation.
Following talks, the two presidents oversaw the signing of agreements in agriculture, economic co-operation, water works, sanitation and tourism, the report said.
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