President Xi Jinping called for joint efforts from China and the Czech Republic to deepen mutual trust and consolidate the political foundation for improved bilateral relations.

During a meeting with Czech President Milos Zeman, Xi said the two nations outlined key areas of cooperation including those under the Belt and Road Initiative, and the two sides should foster new highlights and develop major programs for cooperation. Under the guidance of the BRI and continuous impetus from the cooperative framework of relations between the two countries, Sino-Czech ties enjoy continuous development momentum and broad prospects, he said.

Xi called for the two nations to conduct more cooperation in areas including transport, energy, e-commerce and artificial intelligence. People-to-people exchanges should also be stepped up.

China stands ready to deepen cooperation with the country and jointly safeguard the building of an open global economy.

Zeman said he is pleased to have come to China to attend the China International Import Expo, and he is willing to hold frequent meetings with Xi.

The Czech Republic welcomes investment from Chinese enterprises, and is willing to further promote intergovernmental dialogue and coordination between the two countries, he said.

He added that the Czech Republic firmly opposes unilateralism and protectionism, and it is willing to actively take part in the BRI.