Beijing, November 29th—Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with ólafur Ragnar Grímsson, former President of Iceland and Chairman of Arctic Circle.

Liu said, China and Iceland enjoy a traditional friendship and fruitful cooperation in economy, trade, geothermal sources and other fields. The Chinese side attaches importance to Iceland's important role in Arctic affairs and is willing to work with the Icelandic side to promote peace, stability and sustainable development in the Arctic. Liu praised Grímsson for his commitment to promoting global green development and said that after years of endeavor, China encircled the Taklamakan Desert yesterday, which demonstrates China's determination to promote green development. The Chinese side is willing to work with all countries in the world, including Iceland, to address global challenges such as the climate change.

Grímsson fondly recalled his exchanges with the Chinese side and spoke positively of China's achievements in economic development and other fields. He said, the world today faces severe challenges such as climate change, and energy transformation is the key to the problem. China can play a leading role in the world in this regard. The Icelandic side is willing to give play to its own advantages, and strengthen cooperation with the Chinese side in areas such as addressing climate change and developing renewable energy, and set an example for the world. It is hoped that the Chinese side will continue to actively participate in Arctic affairs through platforms such as Arctic Circle.