(VOVworld) – Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang and German Chancellor Angela Merkel agreed to strengthen bilateral ties during a telephone conversation on Thursday.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Chinese Premier Li Keqiang meet in October 2015 during Merkel's diplomatic visit to China. (Photo: Pool, Getty Images)

Prime Minister Li praised progress in relations between the two countries in 2015 and said they should maintain high-level exchanges and increase cooperation in many areas. He said the two countries will continue to work closely together in international issues and that the 4^th round of inter-government consultations, scheduled for later this year, will further promote bilateral cooperation. Chancellor Merkel said Germany is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in their joint strategic projects and exports to third countries.