Vice-Premier Liu Yandong met Henriette Reker, the mayor of German city Cologne on Feb 12 in Beijing.

Liu appreciated Cologne’s role in the Sino-Germany ties, and hoped the city, which is the fourth biggest in Germany, would continue to contribute to the bilateral regional cooperation.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic ties between the two countries that has led to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Reker said.

Reker said Cologne highly valued its relationship with China, and expected to expand cooperation with China as the city celebrates the 30th anniversary of friendship with Beijing this year.