Premier Li Keqiang telephoned his German counterpart Angela Merkel on Jan 21 and exchanged ideas on bilateral relations and problems of common concern.

The two leaders delivered new year greetings to one another and Premier Li spoke highly of the two countries’ relations in the past year. He expressed the will that China will continue high-level exchanges with Germany; strengthen practical cooperation in various fields, especially in the two projects - “Made in China 2025” and Germany’s “Industry 4.0”.

He also mentioned the fourth round of China-Germany governmental consultation that will be held in 2016, which promotes the development of bilateral relations and cooperation. The Premier expressed the hope that Germany can play an active role in promoting China-Europe trading affairs.

Merkel said Germany will take up the responsibility to promote China-Europe relations and cooperation.

Premier Li also said China is concerned about the humanitarian situation in Syria and provided Syria and related countries with assistance. He suggested supporting the United Nations to promote negotiations and a ceasefire to stop violence in the region to help refugees return home.

Merkel said China’s effort was highly commended by international society. Germany will enhance cooperation with China in solving related problems, she added.