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BEIJING, Oct. 16 (Xinhua) -- Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades said on Friday in Beijing that Cyprus can play a great role in the 21st-century maritime silk road proposed by China, given its geographic position and history in shipping.
Anastasiades made the remarks during an interview with Xinhua, on the sideline of the Asian Political Parties' Special Conference on the Silk Road held by the Communist Party of China (CPC).
"We have a position that is connecting Europe, northern Africa and Asia." he said. "We have one of the biggest shipping fleets in the world."
Cyprus' transport minister met with his Chinese counterpart Wednesday in Beijing to discuss cooperation in port construction and shipping.
In addition to shipping, Anastasiades said there are many other sectors that the two countries can work together, such as energy, tourism, trade and science.
China and Cyprus signed the first inter-governmental science and technology cooperation deal in mid-September.
The treaty will encourage Chinese scientists and companies to help Cyprus in building technology parks, Anastasiades said.
As more and more Chinese people get rich, Cyprus has become a popular investment and tourism destination. Anastasiades said Cyprus welcomes Chinese investment. Cyprus also plans more visa application centers in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenyang, Wuhan and Chengdu.
