On May 5, 2004, Belgian King Albert II met at the Royal Palace with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao of the State Council, who is paying an official visit to Brussels.
King Albert expressed his welcome for Wen's visit to Belgium. He said that this visit fully embodies China's strong willingness to develop friendly relation with Belgium, which he welcomes and appreciates. Belgium attaches great importance to its relations with China, appreciates China's positive role in international affairs and would like to further strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation with China in various fields. Belgian Prince Philippe will head a large economic and trade delegation of Belgium to visit China within this year, which is believed to be conducive to promoting the bilateral relations. King Albert asked Wen to convey his greetings to President Hu Jintao.
Wen delivered President Hu's warm greetings to King Albert. He said that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Sino-Belgium relations have been developing rapidly. Belgium, located in the heart of Europe, serves as the headquarters of many international organizations and institutuons, and plays a significant role in international political, economic, cultural and other areas. The Chinese government gives top priority to China-Belgium friendly cooperation and stands ready to develop long-term and stable mutually-beneficial partnership with Belgium. Sino-Belgium relations have resulted in fruitful cooperation thanks to the consistent support and concern by His Majesty the King and the royal family. Wen indicated his belief that with the concern of His Majesty the King, Sino-Belgium relations would achieve better development.