On April 24, 2007, Chinese President Hu Jintao met at the Great Hall of the People with Monacan head of state Prince Albert II, who is on a state visit to China. Both sides held talks in a cordial and friendly atmosphere and reached broad consensus on furthering China-Monaco friendly cooperative ties. Hu spoke highly of the achievements made in the development of bilateral ties since the two countries established diplomatic relations and appreciated Prince Albert II, the Monacan royal family and government for adhering to the one-China policy and attaching importance to developing ties with China. Hu said Prince Albert II has visited China several times before ascending the throne, making a wonderful and deep impression on the Chinese people. "The visit would turn over a new chapter for the friendly cooperation between China and Monaco in the new century," said Hu.

Hu said the two sides had upgraded their relations to ambassadorial level last February, which marks a new era for China-Monaco relationship. He pledged to work with Monaco to strengthen political dialogue and exchanges, enhance coordination and cooperation in international affairs, show mutual understanding and support on major issues of mutual concern, and expand bilateral cooperation on economy and trade. While striving to do a good job in cooperation in the traditional areas, both sides should also actively conduct cooperation on finance, insurance, environmental protection and tourism, encourage mutual investments between enterprises, promote cultural exchanges, strengthen non-governmental contacts and enhance understanding and friendship between the two peoples, especially between the youth of both sides, so as to jointly push for sound and in-depth development of friendly cooperative ties between the two countries.

Prince Albert II said his current visit is the first-ever China tour by a Monacan head of state in history, which the Monacan side is pleased with. The two sides had upgraded their relations to ambassadorial level last year, which opens up broader prospects for bilateral friendly cooperation. Monaco hoped to enhance cooperation with China in economy, trade, culture and other fields, explore new cooperation with Monaco on finance, education, sports, environmental protection and sustainable development and keep closer dialogue and coordination in international organizations, so as to push for bilateral ties, he added.

As a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Albert II said he is confident to see a successful game in China in 2008.

Prior to the talks, President Hu Jintao hosted a welcoming ceremony for Albert II's visit at the North Hall of the Great Hall of the People. Vice Chairman Han Qide of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference Abdul'ahat Abdulrixit, Vice Chairman Yang Bangjie of the Central Committee of China Zhi Gong Party, Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing and other officials attended the ceremony.