Beijing:China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized the need to enhance cooperation with Iceland in several strategic areas, including trade, geothermal energy, green transitioning, and Arctic affairs.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Wang made these remarks during a meeting with Icelandic Foreign Minister Thorgerdur Katrin Gunnarsdottir in Beijing. The meeting coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Wang expressed China's willingness to explore and enhance cooperation with Iceland, particularly in trade and economy, geothermal energy, green transformation, marine affairs, and Arctic-related issues. He also highlighted the importance of increased exchanges in tourism, joint scientific research, and talent cultivation to foster stronger people-to-people connections.

In light of current global uncertainties, Wang urged both countries to work together to support multilateralism, uphold international law, and emphasize the United Nations' central role in international governance. This collaboration aims to promote a more equitable global governance system and contribute to global peace and stability.

Minister Gunnarsdottir, who is visiting China from Monday to Saturday, will also head a delegation of Icelandic businesses participating in a seafood expo in Qingdao, Shandong province. The two countries have shared diplomatic ties since 1971, with China emerging as Iceland's largest trading partner in Asia. A significant milestone in their relationship was the signing of a free trade agreement in April 2013, marking the first such accord between China and a European nation, which came into effect on July 1, 2014. In 2024, the trade volume between China and Iceland was reported to be $443 million.