The goal set by the leaders of the two countries to raise the bilateral trade volume to 100 billion dollars by 2010 was likely to be realized ahead of schedule, said Ma.

    Addressing the issue of human rights and intellectual property rights (IPR) in China, Ma said it was not surprising that disputes had happened between the two countries, as the nations had different social systems and stages of development.

    "It is vital that we establish a mechanism of dialogue to bridge the gap and solve the disputes," said Ma.

    According to Ma, senior officials and experts from both countries had met annually in the past few years to discuss the issue of human rights in China, which has proved helpful in enhancing trust and understanding between the two sides.

    As for the protection of IPR, the attitude of the Chinese government had never been firmer, Ma said, adding that the Chinese premier said ahead of his trip to Europe that "China's IPR protection efforts will carry the full strength of steel, and it will definitely not be something that is as soft as bean curd."

    Meanwhile, to further enhance understanding between the two peoples, China and Germany are seeking to promote cultural exchanges.

    "The year of Germany," similar to "the year of France" held last year in China, will take place in 2009, while "the year of China" will happen in Germany some time later, Ma said.

    A close and healthy relationship between China and Germany was in the interests of both countries and would contribute to the peace and development of the world at large, Ma said. Enditem