China's development in recent years has been very impressive, Maltese Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi said Monday, according to news reaching Rome from Valletta, the capital of Malta.

Making the remarks in a meeting with visiting Chinese Culture Minister Cai Wu, Gonzi spoke highly of the friendly cooperation between Malta and China in various fields.

The leaders of the two countries have exchanged frequent visits in recent years, and the good political ties have played a significant role in boosting bilateral economic and cultural ties, the Maltese prime minister said.

He also spoke highly of the successful holding of Beijing Olympics and the Asia-Europe Meeting in China in 2008, and expressed hopes of further promoting cultural exchanges and cooperation between Malta and China.

Cai, for his part, hailed the smooth development of bilateral ties, saying the two countries enjoy a traditional friendship.

The establishment of the Chinese cultural center in Malta will add new drive to the development of bilateral cultural exchange, which has witnessed good development momentum in recent years, said Cai.

While thanking the Maltese government for its attention to and support for the founding of the center, Cai said China is willing to make joint efforts with Malta to boost bilateral cultural relations.

Cai arrived in Malta on Sunday for a visit.

(Xinhua News Agency February 3, 2009)