Chinese Ambassador stresses Arab-Chinese strategic cooperation

Manama, May 3 (BNA) – Ambassador Lee Chin of China to Bahrain told Bahrain News Agency (BNA) that the Arab-Chinese Cooperation Forum has come to interpret the joint strategy in light of the significant progress made in trade and economic cooperation. He added that China has become Arab's second trading partner and the first trading partner of nine Arab countries, where the volume of trade exchange between the two sides has increased from $25.5 billion 10 years ago to $238.9 billion, at a growth rate exceeding 25% per annum. Chinese Ambassador, on the occasion of China to host the Sixth Ministerial Meeting of the China-Arab Cooperation Forum and celebrating its 10th anniversary, explained the Forum was established as a result of the solid longstanding bilateral relations and cooperation based on mutual benefit to cope with trends of globalization and reinforcing regional cooperation. He pointed out the Forum's achievements along 10 years that have contributed to strengthening mutual political confidence and holding strategic cooperation relations based on comprehensive cooperation and joint development. He noted the development in scientific and cultural cooperation between the two sides, where more than 20 Chinese universities teach Arabic and 11 Confucius Institutes for teaching Chinese language in 8 Arab countries have been operating. He said the Forum will discuss the concept of the establishment of Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, which represent the Chinese President's vision. The two sides will announce Beijing Declaration and will approve the Forum executive program for the period 2014 - 2016 and the development plan between 2014 - 2024. He highlighted Bahrain's participation in the Forum activities and events, hosting the Forum Third Ministerial meeting and Media Cooperation Symposia in 2008. He underscored the participation of Foreign State Minister, Dr. Ghanim bin Fadhil Albuainain, in the Forum which will contribute to the success of the event and reaching fruitful outcomes. MJ