Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong met Algerian Prime Minister Abdelmalek Sellal and his delegation on Thursday.

Yang said China and Algeria enjoy traditional and friendly relationship. Their leaders visit each other’s country frequently. Last year China and Algeria formed comprehensive strategic partnership which gives new impetus to bilateral cooperation. He said Shanghai is keen to play a bigger role in boosting the ties between the two nations.

The mayor said Shanghai is accelerating its drive to become an international economic, financial, trade and shipping center. The city has vast potentials for economic and trade cooperation with Algeria.

Yang said Shanghai wants to share its experiences in urban construction, urban management and port development with Algeria. The Shanghai government will encourage local companies to invest in Algeria.

The two sides can cooperate more in fields of culture and arts to deepen understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Sellal said China and Algeria developed friendly relationship a long time ago and their friendly ties are growing continuously. Shanghai’s great achievement in urban development is impressive. Algeria hopes to learn from Shanghai’s experiences.

He said Algeria and Shanghai should strengthen cooperation in port construction. The two sides should also increase exchanges in economy, trade and culture. He welcomed Shanghai companies to join in Algeria’s economic development for mutual benefits.

Hassane Rabehi, Algerian ambassador to China, and Yang Guangyu, Chinese ambassador to Algeria, were present at the meeting.