On June 18, 2007, Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Li Hui met with Italian Deputy Foreign Minister Gianni Vernetti, who is in China for the preparatory meeting of China-Italy Inter-Governmental Committee and the third ASEM inter-faith dialogue. Both sides exchanged views on the situation in Central Asia, Shanghai Cooperation Organization and other issues.

Li said currently bilateral ties have been developing smoothly. To conduct consultations and dialogue between the two Foreign Ministries on regional and international issues of common concern is of positive significance to building mutual understanding, expanding consensus and deepening cooperation in multilateral affairs, he added.

Vernetti said China is playing a significant role in safeguarding stability in Central Asia, pledging that Italy is ready to strengthen communication and exchanges with China on issues related to Central Asia so as to push for sound and steady development of the situation in the region.