China is ready to maintain close high-level exchanges with Germany for a deeper and wider bilateral cooperation, Premier Li Keqiang said in a phone conversation with German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Nov 7.

Both leaders spoke highly of the progress in the bilateral relationship achieved in the past year.

As this year marks the 45 anniversary of the China-Germany diplomatic relations, both countries have maintained effective communication in major international and regional issues and the annual meeting between the two leaders has achieved fruitful results, according to Premier Li.

He said China is willing to work with Germany in holding new round of government negotiation. “China welcomes enterprises from all countries, including Germany, to expand investment in China and launch cooperation in the field of technology and knowledge,” he said.

China will create a fair and equal business environment for both domestic and foreign enterprises, the Premier added.

Merkel said Germany and China are both making efforts in promoting bilateral ties. Germany is willing to maintain high-level exchanges with China, strengthen communication and economic cooperation for a win-win relationship, she said.

She also expressed the hope that preparation for new round of bilateral negotiation can be launched as soon as possible.