On the morning of November 11, Chinese President Hu Jintao met in the hotel where he stayed in Berlin with the head of the German CDU/CSU parliamentary party group and leader of the Christian Democratic Union Angela Merkel and both sides held cordial and friendly talks on broad subjects.

Hu first congratulated Merkel for soon taking up office as the first female Prime Minister in the German history and appreciated her for actively contributing to the development of bilateral relations for a long period of time. Hu pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic ties 33 years ago, no matter what changes have undergone in the world and bilateral situations, the consensus between both sides to strengthen friendly cooperation remains unchanged. To continuously develop relations with Germany has always held an important status in China's foreign relations. To actively develop relations with China and adhere to the one-China policy is also a persistent position of Germany's successive governments and major parties. To develop bilateral relations conforms to fundamental interest of both countries and their people.

Hu briefed Merkel on current bilateral exchanges and cooperation in the areas of politics, economy and trade, science and technology, education, culture and law, as well as their communication and coordination in international affairs. He pointed out that China will as always actively develop relations with Germany and would like to work with the new German government to maintain bilateral high-level exchanges, strengthen cooperation in various areas and further advance bilateral relations.

Merkel indicated that China's rapid development is full of vigor and vitality and worth admiring. For Germany, to develop long-term and stable relations with China is of great significance. The new German government will adhere to the German government's policy towards China since former Prime Minister Helmut Kohl to further strengthen bilateral political dialogue, implement existing cooperation and expand new cooperation areas, which fully conforms to the aspiration and interest of both peoples.

Upon request, Hu also briefed Merkel on China's economic and social developments, as well as its policies and measures in the area of environmental protection.