ROME, April 7 (Xinhua) -- Italy sees the Shanghai World Expo as an opportunity to boost bilateral ties with China and increase cooperation in strategic fields, Foreign Minister Franco Frattini told Xinhua on Wednesday.
"We want to show the best of Italy to the Chinese people, making 2010 the year of closer cooperation between Italy and China," Frattini said. "This opportunity is offered by the Shanghai Expo."
Frattini said Italy aims to enhance bilateral cooperation with China in such sectors as tourism, green technology and manufacturing, which are at the core of both economies.
Besides, the minister said this year will be crucial as it is the 40th anniversary of the establishment of Italy-China diplomatic ties.
The Chinese culture year in Italy will start in September with a series of events highlighting the ancient cultural link between the two countries, the minister said.
