TIRANA - Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha on Monday met with Zhong Shan, China's vice minister of commerce, and the two vowed to expand and deepen cooperation between the two countries, especially in the field of economic exchanges and trade.

Berisha said the last few years have witnessed significant progress in bilateral relations. He welcomed China's enterprises to invest in Albania, citing rich mineral, hydro-power, and tourism resources and improved investment environment in his country.

Zhong said the Chinese government attaches great importance to the relations between the two countries and that China regards Albania as one of the most important partners in the Balkan region.

Zhong said the purpose of his visit is to deepen the friendship of the two peoples and further develop the bilateral economic and trade relationship.

During the visit, Zhong also held talks with Nasip Naco, Albanian economy minister, and his deputy Enno Bozdo. The two sides had a discussion on broad issues including economic and trade cooperation.

The two sides also signed the Agreement on Economic and Technical Cooperation between the two governments.