CCTV9英语新闻：President Xi meets German counterpart（在线收听）

Chinese President Xi Jinping has welcomed German President Joachim Gauck to Beijing, in his state visit to China. Xi Jinping welcomed Gauck with a grand ceremony, and they jointly reviewed the guard of honor.

Later in their discussions, they agreed to consolidate and strengthen China-German comprehensive strategic partnership. President Xi said for the next step, the two sides can cooperate with a third party in promoting the Belt and Road initiative, interconnectivity between Asia and Europe, as well as explore global markets. He mentioned China hopes to integrate its Belt and Road initiative with European development strategies, adding that China seeks international cooperation in terms of production capacity, which can then provide opportunities for Europe's investment plans. He also mentioned that China's cooperation with eastern Europe can be extended to cover the whole of Europe.

President Gauck recalled the political and economic achievements between the two sides, and acknowledged the openness and inclusiveness of the Belt and Road initiative. He said Germany will continue its cooperation and partnership with China.